Aged one-third in new oak for 12 months, the 2008 Pinot Noir has brambly dark fruit on the nose with notes of wild hedgerow, a touch of strawberry, crushed stone all with fine definition, yet demonstrating a sense of restraint. The palate is medium-bodied with dark berry fruit, dark cherry, apricot and Chinese 5-spice. Good acidity, spicy towards the finish with moderate length, this is a Pinot with good ‘stuffing’ and it should age well over 5-8 years. Drink 2011-2018. Importer: The Sorting Table, Napa, CA; tel. (707) 603-1460

The 2007 Pinot Noir has a rich, showier nose than the 2008 with notes of cranberry, raspberry leaf, a touch of violet and mulberry. The palate is medium-bodied, fine tannins, a fine grainy structure with notes of mulberry, dark plum and a touch of thyme that leads to a savory, finish that would benefit from a little more length. To be frank, I was expecting a little more from this wine. Drink now-2014. Importer: The Sorting Table, Napa, CA; tel. (707) 603-1460