2003 Donum Estate Carneros Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., 575 cases, $60. Cool weather at bloom cause a light set and yields were low (4.14 lbs/vine, 1.88 tons/acre). Harvest started on September 17 and was completed in 7 days. The winemaking regimen was the same as for the 2002 vintage. 100% estate fruit. This wine took extra time to come around and was kept in the bottle longer than usual before release (January 2006). · This wine is all about texture. There is plenty of structure and tannin in this wine, but it has a charming bent of delicacy to the flavors and the mouth feel that only Pinot Noir can offer. The nose entices with dark crushed berries, spice, herbs and a hint of oak. There are layers of complex flavors here including luscious dark fruits, exotic woods and mushrooms. A distinctively earthy and complete Pinot Noir that has that Pinot fabulosity. Reviewed July 10, 2006

Winery: Donum Estate