This wine offers evolved aromas of plums, raspberries, and strawberries as well as soft, straightforward, one-dimensional flavors. The 1997 Pinot Noir Reserve displays too much wood in its flavors, but there is a marketplace for lavishly oaked wines. It also reveals strawberry and cherry jam notes, but the wood is prominent. Consume it over the next 1-2 years. Tel. (888) 339-9463 Fax. (805) 934-3589

The 1996 Pinot Noir Reserve (a selection made both in the vineyard and cellar) is a richer, deeper offering than the 1997 that is given 18 months of barrel aging. Production is limited to less than 700 cases. The wine exhibits a dark plum color, and a seductive black cherry/plum-like perfume with hints of Asian spices, pain grille (toast), and roasted herbs. Savory, round, and disarming, this is a delicious, easy to understand and drink Pinot that should be consumed over the next 2-4 years. Although not profound, this wine offers plenty of sex appeal.Tel. (888) 339-9463 Fax. (805) 934-3589

Although the red wine program lags behind the high quality whites, the Pinot Noirs taste better with each new vintage. The 1994 Pinot Noir Reserve is enticing and seductive. This wine reveals a strawberry, black-cherry, earthy, slightly tomato-scented nose, a seductive, creamy texture, ripe fruit on the palate, medium to full body, considerable toasty oak, and a soft, layered finish. A delicious Pinot Noir, it falls just short of being exceptional. It should drink well for 2-3 years.Tel. (888) 339-9463 Fax. (805) 934-3589

The 1992 Pinot Noir Reserve is light-bodied, with noticeably deficient fruit intensity, spicy oak, and a more herbal character. It should be drunk up.Tel. (888) 339-9463 Fax. (805) 934-3589