The only St.-Innocent Pinot Noir that routinely gives me pause for concern is the Temperance Hill, and the 2002 is no exception. Its creamy oak aromas lead to a medium-bodied personality dominated by American oak spices (1/3 of the wine was aged in new American oak barrels). Notes of resin and a lactic element (almost milky) can be found intermingled with red fruits in this well-balanced, softly-textured effort. Those who love the aromas and flavors of American oak will find my score unduly harsh, yet I find that it impairs the wine’s fruit from expressing itself. Drink it over the next 2-3 years. Tel. (503) 378-1526 www.stinnocentwine.com