2006 MacMurray Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
13.5% alc., $19.
·
An oak-infused wine with aromas and
flavors of confected black cherry, smoke and tar. A herbaceous edge is evident. Soft, but evident tannins.
I have seen this wine very favorably reviewed in the wine press but it was disappointing to me. Drink it
with grilled meat or fish.
2006 Arissa Jane Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., 432 cases, $35. From a quote "famous maker" of Pinot Noir.
·
Shy dark stone fruits, shrooms, mowed
grass, raisin and oak on the nose. Wild berry flavors are fine, but there is plenty of raisin and prune to
ruin the experience. The penetrating acidity leads to a puckering finish..
2006 William Selyem Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
14.2% alc., $42.
·
Strawberry, red cherry, allspice,
and a hint of pine resin on the nose with light and tart red cherry and blueberry flavors. Soft, feminine and
cozy with lively acidity. Simple, but enjoyable.
2006 Zapaltas La Cruz Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
14.5% alc.,
$43.
·
A perfectly fine appellation wine showing the best qualities of the cool
Sonoma Coast. Nicely spiced red fruits, silky texture, and lively acidity to match
up well with food. Just fine the next day from a re-corked opened bottle. Sold
through the website, with limited retail distribution.
2006 Kanzler Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
14.6% alc., $50. The Kanzler Vineyard
is on an east-facing slope of a small valley in the coastal hills between
Bodega Bay and Sebastopol. Foggy mornings, warm days, and afternoon
breezes are ideal for Pinot Noir. Farmed by Stephen and Lynda Kanzler. The
winemaker is Greg Stach.
·
Dark red cherry, strawberry, oak spice and some
herbs in the mix as well. Plenty of fruit but not flabby or overdone. Full of charm
with a soft, velvety texture, refined tannins, and a clean finish. A seamless wine
brimming with juiciness. Highly recommended. Retail distribution and mailing list sales. The website
is www.kanzlervineyards.com.
2006 Alcina Cellars Sangiacomo Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
14.9% alc., 264 cases, $53.
·
The nose evolves beautifully in the glass exhibiting
wet and smoky oak, baked cherries, and grilled meat. Delicious black cherry
onslaught leaving a gradually fading memory on the mildly dry finish. Very light
and diaphanous with a smoky edge throughout. Thoroughly satisfying, the wine
holds its alcohol well. Sold through a mailing list at www.alcinacellars.com.
