1998 Casa Carneros Pinot Noir

[wondersofwine]

1.5 oz. pour at Enoteca Vin Restaurant. I have also ordered a bottle or two. It is $30 from the winery but Carolina Wine Company is selling for about $25 ($20 by the case). Small, family-run estate specializing in Pinot Noir and Merlot. Planted in 1989. The Pinot Noir is blended from eight clones grown on the estate (Hanzell, St. Clair, Chalone, Swan and four designated by University of California-Davis numbers). Website says method of vinifying in small half-bins allows for a rich, complex, and extracted Pinot Noir. Aged 15 months in French oak barrels (50% new, 25% one-year old, and 25% two-years old).
14.6% alcohol
Dark red color in the glass but can see through it. Cranberry/cherry nose. some velvety sensations on the roof of the mouth. Surprising impact on mid-palate. Long finish. Flavors of dark cherries and blackberries (not so much cranberry on the flavor as on the nose). Some subtle wood influence--just enough to give the wine extra weight and finish. (I made the note about subtle wood influence with a question mark before I checked the website and see that they do use some new French oak).
I like this wine and will probably reorder if it remains available. Only 600 cases.
Proves that some California Pinot Noir lasts well beyond three or four years in bottle.


[This message has been edited by wondersofwine (edited 11-08-2004).]

[This message has been edited by wondersofwine (edited 11-08-2004).]

[Thomas]

Gee, I gotta get to that enoteca down South.

[wondersofwine]

Let me know when you come, Foodie and I'll meet you there.