Two separate tastings of the 2001 Pinot Noir Reserve left me wondering what all the fuss is about? There are 2,000 cases, and about 15% stems were utilized. It exhibits under ripe notes of sour cherries, loamy soil, and hints of raspberries as well as bitter chocolate. Dark ruby-colored, medium-bodied, muted, and one-dimensional, it will not develop more weight or complexity with aging. Tel. (707) 226-1395 and (800) MONDAVI; fax (707) 251-4386

Certainly a bigger, denser wine than the Carneros Pinot. The plummy-berry flavors are wrapped in sturdy, rich tannins, with extra notes of earth and herbs. Feels weighty on the palate, a wine of importance, not to mention elegance. The density suggests meats on the bone.——S.H.(8/1/2003)—— 91