Cline Pinot Noir 2009

Ripe strawberry fruit and hints of vanilla bean make for a chummy introduction on the nose. An expansive spice works its way into every corner of the mouth bearing all the charms of the fruit and only enough tannins to balance the rest through the supple finish. Rounded out by 6 months in French oak (30% of which is new), Cool Climate Pinot Noir is poised to be an easy answer for what to bring up from the cellar no matter what’s for dinner. 14.5% alcohol by volume
Wine review by Nicholas Livingston, February 2011

6 months in 30% new French Oak. Deep ruby color, red fruit aromas, flavors have some vanilla and toffee but they do not hide the strawberry. Rich, lush mouth feel. Can stand up to lamb but will not overpower fish.
-wine tasting note by MN, 7/29/11

Expert Review

87 Points, Robert M. Parker, Jr.
"It would be interesting to insert the 2010 Pinot Noir Cool Climate (100% Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir) in a blind tasting against more expensive domestic Pinots or French Burgundies. A dark ruby color is followed by notions of underbrush, loamy soil, red cherries and spice. Medium-bodied and surprisingly elegant with more flavor and intensity than one would expect at this price."

Food Pairings

Roasted birds are a preternatural match but Pinot Noir goes with any number of dishes ranging from those incorporating wild game and foraged mushrooms to veal stews or grilled fleshy fish. For a classic cheese pairing hunt down some Epoisse...