The 2004 Pinot Noir Krafuss is the best of these wines. It presents a deep color along with ripe black cherries, flowers and spices in a very sleek expression of Pinot Noir. Made in a rich, sumptuous style, it should drink well to age ten although it needs another year or so of cellaring to integrate its oak. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2014. Alois Lageder is one of Alto Adige’s best known producers. After having tasted the entire range of wines twice I can only say I was underwhelmed by the wines, most of which are simple and lack any real character.Importer: Dalla Terra, Napa, CA; tel. (707) 259-5405

This beautiful wine showcases those characteristic Pinot Noir aromas of wild berries, white cherry, delicate spice and lightly toasted nut. The wine offers bright fruit intensity, lively acidity and imparts a delicate and feminine impression overall.——M.L.(12/15/2009)—— 90