This flight of 5, charts 3 vintages and 4 appellations. See the ‘Focus on Arlaud’ for the last of this flight.
Lost Canyon Russian River Valley Dutton Ranch Morelli Lane Vineyard Pinot Noir 2006
Raisins, evolving fruit and warmth show on the palate, with some astringency. P&B in Oakland, CA 14.6% $42 at the winery Lost Canyon
Robert Sinskey Los Carneros Napa Valley Pinot Noir 2006 In May ’08, I noted the vibrant fresh fruit and a great balance of acidity. In January 09, there’s the added complexity of warm fruit compote and brown spices. All organic grapes in this Pinot. Delicious. GP&B in Napa 14.1% $38 at the winery and $30.49 at Bottle Barn Sinskey
Esterlina Anderson Valley Estate Vineyard Pinot Noir 2005
There’s strawberry rhubarb with an oak veneer and some earthy notes. It’s trailing off surprisingly early though. The Sterling family is making great Pinot from their estate in Mendocino. P&B in Healdsburg 14.5% $29.99 at Bottle Barn Esterlina
Woodenhead Russian River Valley Pinot Noir 2004
Oak and solvent notes dominate the nose yet the palate is still strutting its sweet fruit. P&B in Forestville 14.8% $38 for the current vintage of ’05 at the winery Woodenhead