Here are four additional Pinot Noirs from around the globe that made themselves felt at our November tasting.

 Pisoni Estate, Santa Lucia Highlands, 2006:

This is a “meaningful” wine with lots of intense berry fruit, more tannic than I usually appreciate in a Pinot.  Hidden spice and minerality linger underneath.  While I enjoyed the wine, I suspect that it will integrate more fully and tone down a bit over the next few years….has superb potential.

 Georges Lignier Gevrey Chambertin 1er Cru Aux Combottes, 2003:

Stunning deep ruby hue with ripe and concentrated fruits of red currant and raspberry.  Perfect integration of fine tannins and minerality completes the package.  Great demonstration of a true red Burgundy.

 Beau Freres Beaux Freres Vineyard 1994:

When I learned that this wine was a 1994, the shock was obvious on my face.  I didn’t expect that a 15 year old Oregon Pinot would survive the time span with such elegance.  The wine displayed a classic medium cherry color with lovely deep plum, cherry and berry aromas, a hint of leather and soft tannins. 

 J Rochioli Reserve, Russian River Valley, Sonoma 1991:

Yep…you read the vintage correctly….an 18 year old Pinot and still alive and kicking.  The wine offered beautiful red fruits and lovely, soft spice.  Another confirmation that west coast Pinots can survive the ages.

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Tags: Pinot Noir