December 30, 2022 - Way outside of its drinking window, and we didn't use the good pinot glassware, but.... 30-minute decant, served in the low 60s F. Still a rich garnet color, just the slightest hint of bricking. The candied cherry cola and slight alcoholic heat that I had always associated with this wine has disappeared, leaving an earthy, savory food friendly pinot. Nose of leather and mint, hints of smoke dancing in and out.. Saliva-inducing mushroom on the palate, with the slightest tart cherry note and a pleasant hint of hoppy bitterness after an hour as the wine heated up a little, well-integrated acidity and a short, slightly drying finish. Picked the bottle up on Winebid, as a nod to my past history running a wine bar, when we used to sell a fair amount of this (and other) Fess Parker wines by the glass. Pleasantly surprised by how this wine has aged.
September 17, 2017 - very nicw ready
December 20, 2014 - This wine was decanted and drank over two days. The color was ripe plum and the aroma was a faint whiff of candied fruit, some wet forrest floor and minerals. The wine has huge legs and a fifteen second finish. The taste is delicate and light with cherries and saddle leather. While I won't say it's a great wine to drink. I have to admit it's qualities are interesting and show character.
November 30, 2013 - Went great with different Italian plates: spicy appetizer, meat pizza, pasta w/red sauce... Exceptional.
July 6, 2013 - Sublime. Slight earthy/minerality, but not as dry as I was expecting it to be. A "comfortable" bottle; will try it with the 2008 next time.
January 26, 2013 - Drank great, but should be consumed now if you still have some on your shelf.
March 4, 2012 - I really like this.
March 27, 2011 - Good Pinot for $20
December 17, 2010 - Typical ripe Cali Pinot
December 4, 2010 - Decanted for 90 min.
Color: Dark purple, almost brown
Nose: dark cherry, leather,
Mid-palate: mineral, dry
Finish: smooth, touch or spice. blackberries