1999 Daniel Gehrs Pinot Noir

[dananne]

Santa Maria Valley -- Lake Marie

This one was fantastic -- Anne and I both would rank it in our top 5 wines we've had in the past year or so. Decanted 30 minutes to warm up from cellar temp and because of some sediment.

Clear ruby color, and a very aromatic nose of cherry, strawberry, and bacon fat. Very silky feel, and the flavors are very complex, with the fruit mingling with the aforementioned bacon fat, some tobacco, and piney elements. There are some dusty tannins present and good acidity. The finish is exceptionally long. 13.5% alc. We paid about $30 for it locally, but I've picked up other vintages for less. I posted a TN a while back praising the '98, which had been my wife's favorite PN, but I think this one topped it. A very nice wine.