The other single clone Pinot Noir, the 2008 Pinot Noir Clone 115, is outstanding and a dramatic improvement over the Pommard clone. Nice black cherry, sassafras, and damp earth notes in the moderately intense perfume are followed by a broad, savory, full-bodied mouthfeel. The tannins are silky-smooth and the wine rich, up-front, and ideal for drinking over the next 5-6 years. Given the recent death of Fess Parker, it was emotional to taste through his wines. As I indicated in the Rhone Ranger report, he was a great man as well as a visionary. Tel. (805) 688-1545

This is a big, dense Pinot Noir, and quite a good one, although it’s a bit sharp in acidity. Really packs in the black cherry and oak flavors, with a long, red licorice finish, but it’s immature, and needs time to come together. Give it 2–3 years. ——S.H.(10/1/2010)—— 88