1998 Santa Cruz Mtn Vineyards

[winoweenie]

Opened this a tad early(I know BRW) but wanted to see if I wanted to get more from this edition of the wine club. Medium red with light bricking on the edge. Nice mature pinot nose of coffe grounds, forest floor, sweetish black fruits and asian spices. The entry was soft and supple, medium center and a 3&3/4ths lapper finish. Doesn't have the power or finesse of the Estate version but at under 20 bucks a clatter you definately get your moneys' worth. Hard to argue with a fully mature, drinkable pinot at this price. Will probably show better with some cellar rest. Next bottle will be more definative. 87/92. 19.60 as a club offering. 12.5% alc. WW

[winoweenie]

Well the duckling has grown into a Swan. Sweet asian spices are noticible along with black cherries on the nose. Solid entry, weighty center and an improved 4 lapper finish. Kick this baby up to a solid 89/92 and rising. WW

[Drew]

Only took that duckling 17 days to grow up...probably be dead by the end of April [img]http://wines.com/ubb/biggrin.gif[/img].

Drew

[winoweenie]

Shows the absolute veracity of bottle shock in shipping. Opened the 1st hummer 4 days after reception. Was a swan all along just needed a little bit of sleep to get the old limbs stretched out. Know the feeling well. WW [img]http://wines.com/ubb/wink.gif[/img]

[hotwine]

Pulled one of these tonight to pair with wild salmon grilled on a cedar plank. Was worried when first opened as it seemed weak and uninteresting.... but it came alive with the fish and proved very nice indeed with bright red fruit, very food-friendly. Have only one more bottle of the vintage.