2006 Ardiri Estate Grown Napa Carneros Pinot Noir

14.2% alc.,560 cases, $45. This is a new project produced and bottled by Gypsy Dancer Estates in Oregon for Ardiri. The name is Sicilian for “taking a risk” and can also mean “being consumed by fire.” The Carneros vineyard contains Dijon clones 115, 667, 777, 828 and rare Heirloom selections. · My highest scoring wine of the tasting competition. Beautiful and complex aromatics featuring ripe red cherry, red berry, floral notes, oak, char and a hint of allspice. Spiced cherries carry the attack with a hint of oak and herbs. The mouth feel is creamy, there is a healthy tannin structure, and the finishing spicy kick is lingering and memorable. Reviewed December 16, 2007

Winery: Ardiri Estate
From article: Pinot Noir Shootout Prelims