May 17, 2023 - Loring has a weight I enjoy, smooth and unpretentious; carries a vein of purity that I love. Heavy black cherries, cola, vanilla... the base... some time kissed in. Add all spice, fun dip, some boysenberry, other red berries, and some tea notes. The acidity is a bit muted a bit on this bottle (not all bottles); Tannins give good texture; Finish punches but does not punch long in this case.
February 4, 2022 - A lot has changed in 2 years since last opening this wine. The color of cranberries on the rim with ruby at the core. The nose is explosive with cranberries, cloves, cola, black cherries, and a faint vanilla. The tannins are integrated and round. The finish is less about the fruit and more about the crunch of cloves and earth. 14.8% alc. With cold country ham and swiss on toast. The pairing works well. 02.04.22. Recommended and leaning toward Highly Recommended.
March 27, 2021 - Bought a bunch of these years ago, this particular vineyard is north of Santa Barbara, and I find I like the wines coming out of the region of the state. This is big and fruit forward, loads of cherry cola, but tons of acidity that gives a touch of effervescence and makes so food friendly in spite of the 14.8% alcohol. No oak, just loads of Cali sunshine kissed fruit. Wouldn't be my wine for every night of the week, but fun to have once in awhile. WS rated 91, and I would agree.
December 13, 2019 - The nose of the Clos Pepe is intense and distinct with cola, vanilla, black cherry and teaberry. The bouquet may be more interesting than the palate, but it delivers nonetheless by tracking the nose with precision and exuberant fruit. Some sediment. 14.8% alc. Likely paired with pork tenderloin leftovers with blue cheeses. No Recommendation at this point.
April 12, 2019 - Have really enjoyed every bottle that I've opened. Big, round, cherry cola notes, medium weight and finish.
April 5, 2019 - Dark, sweet black cherry on the nose and palate. Mouth filling. Round finish. Toward the end, but much enjoyed.
November 24, 2016 - On of the favorites at Thanksgiving dinner.
May 4, 2016 - 2011's are turning. Drink them if you have any.
April 7, 2016 - Brooding and syrupy for a pinot noir. Big black cherry and asian spice on the nose and palate; fleshy and mouth filling. Nothing subtle about this one. Prefer Wes's version.
February 26, 2016 - Just stunning. This big, bold, and beautiful pinot has aged very gracefully. Complex, structured, fruit forward, and smooth.