There are approximately 500 cases of the brilliant 2006 Sangiovese, which includes 10% Cabernet Sauvignon in the blend. One of the finest Sangiovese-based wines made in northern California, it reveals notes of strawberry jam, cedar, new saddle leather, and roasted herbs. The complex aromatics are accompanied by a medium-bodied wine with sweet, pure fruit and plenty of character. Consume it over the next 2-3 years. Pride Mountain Vineyards is going through a transitionary stage with the departure of their renowned winemaker, Bob Foley, and the hiring of his replacement, Sally Johnston, formerly at St. Francis. The first Pride vintage where she had complete control is 2008. This is an impressive 83-acre vineyard spread high on Spring Mountain, traversing both the Napa and Sonoma County lines. Tasting through Pride’s 2006s was somewhat mixed. With the exception of the top Reserves, the wines did not appear to be at the same quality level as the 2005s, 2003s, 2002s, or 2001s. Keep in mind that 2004 was a troublesome year for Pride Mountain, and it looks like 2006 is another less than brilliant year. Nevertheless, some very good 2006s were made, but when expectations are so high, it is sometimes difficult to sustain them.Tel. (707) 963-4949; Fax (707) 963-6039

Is this the most expensive Sangiovese in California? Maybe. It’s pretty good and definitely rich, even if it has little varietal character. Could be almost any ripe, opulent red wine, with its oak-infused flavors of crushed ripe cherry pulp, chocolate, currants and pepper.——S.H.(7/1/2009)—— 87