The impressive, dark plum/purple-colored 2004 Pinot Noir Evelyn possesses a deep, layered mouthfeel as well as a soft, attractive, velvety-textured, opulent personality. Sweet cherry and strawberry jam notes intermixed with forest floor, herbs, and spicy oak emerge from this complex, already delicious effort. It should drink well for 7-8 years. Tel. (805) 938-5050

Stunning. Just magnificent. This is from Tantara’s little Bien Nacido block. It achieves wonderfully ripe fruit flavors with clean, balancing tannins and acids to produce the utmost California cool-climate Pinot Noir. Cherries, raspberries, cola, rich new oak and Asian spice flavors all flood the palate, wrapped into a dramatic silky, velvety texture. This is great Pinot Noir. ——S.H.(12/31/2006)—— 97