1 | Wine | Pinot Noir, Central Coast, 2009

"Bright red. Sexy aromas of black raspberry, cinnamon, minerals and potpourri; smells like there are stems here but Kathy Joseph says no. Precise and vibrant on the palate, with good nervy cut to its intense flavors of candied red berries and spicecake. Still youthfully taut and bound-up but shows excellent potential. Turns more floral with air, finishing with tangy grip and a lingering hint of Asian spices. This pinot shows impressive vivacity for its warm vintage."

"Ruby-red in color, the aromas of this wine are reminiscent of Bing cherry, cranberry, black tea and forest floor. As a result of the cool growing season, there are pronounced red-berry flavors on the palate, and the texture is graceful, with fine tannins, clean acidity and lingering notes of dried red fruits."

"The 2009 Pinot Noir Ashley's is a big super-ripe wine endowed with dark fruit, cola, sweet spices, vanilla and sweet French oak, all of which come together nicely. Ashely’s is made in a decidedly forward, flashy style and the oak (50% new barrels) is also a bit much for the wine’s structure."

"Subdued, slightly wild nose hints at redcurrant, cherry, licorice, menthol and clove. At once dense and juicy, with primary fruit flavors in the deep background today. This serious pinot has excellent lift but comes across as uncompromisingly dry today and in need of patience. The tight finish features substantial tannins. A bit of a cipher today, but structured to age." Reviewed by Stephen Tanzer.

"Bright red. Sexy aromas of black raspberry, cinnamon, minerals and potpourri; smells like there are stems here but Kathy Joseph says no. Precise and vibrant on the palate, with good nervy cut to its intense flavors of candied red berries and spicecake. Still youthfully taut and bound-up but shows excellent potential. Turns more floral with air, finishing with tangy grip and a lingering hint of Asian spices. This pinot shows impressive vivacity for its warm vintage."