The 2006 Pinot Noir Arroyo Grande’s light ruby color is followed by aromas of celery seed, spice, strawberries, raspberries, and cherries. Its spicy nose sets it apart from the Edna Valley offering. It is an attractive, medium-bodied Pinot displaying tasty red fruits and a clean, firm finish. Consume it over the next 4-7 years. The unquestionable Edna Valley reference point for Burgundy’s varietals is Talley Vineyards. Their wines eclipse any other wines made from these varietals in this region. Tel. and Fax (805) 489-0446

The basic cuvee, the 2006 Pinot Noir Edna Valley, exhibits a medium ruby color as well as notes of underbrush, loamy soil, and sweet red currants as well as cherries. This medium-bodied, elegant, pure effort should be drunk over the next 2-4 years. The unquestionable Edna Valley reference point for Burgundy’s varietals is Talley Vineyards. Their wines eclipse any other wines made from these varietals in this region.Tel. and Fax (805) 489-0446

Talley’s basic estate Pinot can be good, and it can be ordinary. The ’06 is pretty tannic and direct. It’s a hard, tough wine that’s not particularly lush, although it’s clean and properly varietal. You’ll find cherry and currant flavors that veer into raisins.——S.H.(3/1/2009)—— 86