Longoria makes one of the most balanced Pinots in California, combining power and charm with early drinkability. This beauty is complex in aromatic beetroot, cherry, cola, oakspice and smoke notes, and drinks dry and supple, with fairly tight tannins. It shows brilliant structure, with a firm, silky texture and brisk acidity. It is a wholesome, completely fulfilling Pinot Noir. ——S.H.(3/1/2006)—— 96

The 2002 Pinot Noir Mt. Carmel Vineyard is a beauty. It possesses plenty of black cherry characteristics along with hints of caramel, earth, and plums presented in a fleshy, full-bodied, seamless, dense, supple yet seductive style. The wine’s perfume and headiness suggest consumption over the next 3-4 years is warranted. Tel. (805) 688-0305

A great success, a great wine that seems to epitomize this appellation. Brimming with cool-climate acidity, firm and steely in texture, but lush and seductive. The cherry, mocha and cinnamon flavors go on forever, massive yet balanced and harmonious. ——S.H.(11/1/2004)—— 94

The dark ruby-colored 2001 Pinot Noir Mt. Carmel Vineyard reveals sweetness as well as texture in its vibrant personality. Notes of strawberries, cherries, plums, and earth in addition to well-integrated acidity are found in this medium-bodied 2001. Drink it over the next 2-3 years. Tel. (805) 688-0305

This dramatic wine is dark, young and closed. It opens with a flourish of black cherry and currant aromas conjoined with the smoky vanillins of oak, but it hasn’t all come together. Yet it impresses with its sheer flashy depth. Give this puppy a few years to knit together. It is a very, very good wine.——S.H.(10/1/2003)—— 92