Another outstanding Pinot from this relatively new Paso Robles winery, this one will be difficult to keep stashed in your cellar. It is pure pleasure tasting rich blackberry, black cherry, and boysenberry aromas and flavors highlighted with bright notes of raspberry and pomegranate. Aged 16 months in 100 percent French oak (25 percent new), it’s well integrated, with pleasant notes of spice and vanilla. This Pinot will complement rack of lamb, filet mignon, or a roast chicken dinner. But if you’re like me you’ll find it hard to resist opening it merely for the luxury of drinking it. At $32 retail, it’s a bargain that won’t last long on store shelves. Available at 15 Degrees C in Templeton, jackcreekcellars.com, or their new tasting room in Templeton.Â
This article appears in Dec 18-25, 2008.