The 2009 Hounds Pinot Noir represents a big step-up in quality. Pale to medium ruby in color, it gives well defined, perfumed violet and ripe cherry aromas with some tree bark and cloves. Crisp, medium-full bodied with a medium level of fine-grained tannins, it finishes long. Approachable now, it should continue to drink through 2015+. Importer: Allan Scott Wines USA, Huntsville, AL; tel. (256) 534-6758.