The 2009 Pinot Noir Cerise shows the earthier side of Pinot. Autumn leaves, crushed flowers, raspberries, licorice, game and smoke meld together in this singular, highly expressive Pinot. Firm yet well-integrated tannins frame the long finish. The Cerise needs at least another 2-3 years in bottle for some of the firmness to soften, but it will likely always be a touch wild and rustic. The Cerise was vinified with 25% whole clusters. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2021. I was totally blown away by the wines I tasted with proprietor Ted Lemon. These are some of the most refined, polished Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs being made in California today. I can’t recommend the wines highly enough. Lemon describes 2009 as a mild season with prolonged bloom that resulted in considerable shatter and a high amount of shot berries. There was no real heat to speak of in September. The 2010s were harvested during the first two weeks of October, much later than the 2009s. I also tasted a handful of 2010 Pinots from tank that appear promising, even if stylistically they aren’t as generous as the 2009s. Tel. (707) 823-9586; www.littorai.com