2002 Talisman Thorn Ridge Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., 245 cases, $44. This vineyard lies in a rugged, cold and foggy location on the edge of the Petaluma Gap. Ted Klopp farms this desolate outpost. The soils are low vigor and water is very limited. · This Pinot is full of character and is just plain terrific. Harmonious and balanced with a velvety mouth feel, this wine needs some time to reveal its charms. Give it adequate air time and it becomes silky and sensuous, redolent with red and dark berries, cherries and an underlying earthiness. You can even enjoy it as it evolves over several days. It was delicious from an opened and re-corked bottle three days later, becoming less about fruit and more about interesting notes of leather, tobacco, exotic wood and wet leaves. Reviewed May 1, 2006

Winery: Talisman