Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir

2008 Bernardus “Rosella’s Vineyard” – It had a lot of weight. There seemed to be an abundance of caramel flavors that probably must’ve come from the oak. It’s too young to tell. Last tasted fall 2010 Drink now-2014 

2006 Tondre “Grapefield Vineyard” – It had a dark raspberry color and seemed to lack tannin structure. There were nuances of sweet fruit and pomegranates and this wine seemed like a great value for $60. It actually had its own identity too. Last tasted fall 2010 Drink now-2013 

2006 Peter Michael “Les Moulin Rouge/Pisoni Vineyard” – I sold this to the folks in the magnum room. It seemed less heady than other Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noirs. The bright color made me believe it was filtered more so than others. For $155 per bottle, I’d rather drink Premier Cru Burgundy, but I that depends what mood I’m in. Last tasted summer of 2010 Drink now-2014 

2005 De Tierra Silacci Vineyard Pinot Noir - Santa Lucia Highlands, California
The snappy red fruit nuances (raspberry, pomegranate and more) encourage salivation but is reserved. Instead of revealing everything on the first date, she makes you wait, think, observe and finally, savor. Last tasted 2007 Drink now-2010 

2005 Morgan “Double L”, Santa Lucia Highlands $110 (10/9/07) – Bing cherry with blue fruit and soft tannins dance. The bride and groom think the name of their first child should be Morgan. This alcoholic wine’s robust flavors make me want to give over-extracted wines a second chance. Last tasted 2007 Drink now-2010 

2004 Miura "Gary's Vineyard", Santa Lucia Highlands - It felt like the black cherries that would stain a white dress. I guess you, should call them bing cherries? "What am I drinking cherry-cola from a soda fountain?" No it's probably that big, peppery pinot we had at Casanova's tonight. You knew the alcohol was present but it wasn't obvious in the taste. Last tasted 2007 Drink now-2015 