2008 Stomping Girl Split Rock Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
14.0%
alc., $38. A newer family owned winery specializing in Pinot Noir from
purchased grapes.
·
Shy aromatics with hints of black cherries, spice and warm
cookies. Nicely weighted cherry and strawberry fruits carry over to a pleasant
finish of moderate length. Doesn’t have the firm tannins often found in Sonoma
Coast Pinot Noirs. I admire this wine for its balance and finesse. Very good (-).
2007 Hart’s Desire Rockin H Ranch Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
13.9% alc., $20. Double Gold Medal at
Sonoma County Harvest Fair.
·
Very strange aromatics featuring dilute dried cherry aromas, oak and green
beans. Slightly confected cherry essence delicately structured with soft tannins. The flavors trump the nose.
Decent.
2007 Calstar Cellars Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
14.2% alc., $22.
From winemaker Rick Davis (Londer, Halleck).
·
The nose starts off
bright with aromas of black cherries, red berries, spring herbs and a
hint of oak. Over time in the glass, the intensity fades unveiling notes
of wet leaves and brioche. Nicely herbed red fruits with discreet
richness, soft tannins, and moderate persistence. A workhorse Pinot
that is not extraordinary, but has everything in check leading to a pleasant
drinking experience that is value-priced to boot. Decent (+)
2007 Roessler Wines Gap’s Crown Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
13.8% alc., 248 cases, $42.
·
The
nose is very subdued at present showing little fruit and primarily herbal oak. Slightly tart raspberry, cranberry
and blackberry flavors supported by sweet oak. Plush and reasonably intense on the mid palate with some
persistence on the finish which leaves a sharp snap of acidity in its wake. Doesn’t impress at this price.
Decent.
2007 Ceritas Escarpa Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
13.7% alc., 130 cases,
$54, wax seal. The name Ceritas is Spanish for “mineral expression of
soil.” My first experience with this newer label from winemaker John Raytek and his spouse
Phoebe Bass.
·
Deeply colored in the glass. Bright cherry cola, wild berry,
and sawed wood aromas come at you. Hard to resist. Dark red fruits sing
on the palate. Rich, but with admirable finesse and a good cut of acidity.
This wine really aims to please with a pillowy texture, fine tannins, and a
lingering finish. You get well-structured fruit, lively acidity, and low alcohol to
boot: any whiners? Order online at www.ceritaswines.com or www.klwines.com.
2006 Emeritus William Wesley Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
14.3% alc.,
$45.
·
Moderate reddish-purple color in the glass. A fruity nose displaying scents of
dried cherries, grape jam and barnyard. Tasty wild berry and black cherry compote
wrapped in firm tannins finishing with an aromatic and fruity finish of impressive length.
With lively acidity and good harmony, this Pinot will age beautifully. A wine to partner
with hearty food. Very good.
