Sterling Vintner’s Collection Pinot Noir 2003 (PB)

This Central Coast delight was bought on the recommendation of the Wall Street Journal by Gaiter and Brecher. It is light on the pour with a raspberry bouquet. In the mouth it is impressive with a real nice balance of fruit, tannins and acid; they all work in consort bringing forth steely flavors with hints of smoke and finishing with a touch of cocoa. With a little time to breathe, cherries are up front and the balance is superior with a long elegant finish abounding in chocolate. This is a fine fruit forward, New World wine. With the last gulp a wonderful little surprise of fresh basil made an appearance then said Adieu! At $12, this is worth seeking out, rasing a glass and then another and another...