Pahlmeyer Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

 

2007

Robert Parker, Wine Advocate #180, December 2008
“The 2007 Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast (81% from the Wayfarer Vineyard) possesses a deep ruby/plum color as well as a sweet bouquet of plums, black currants, figs, underbrush, and meaty, forest floor-like notes.  This deep, rich, round Pinot is not yet as complex as the 2006, but the wine is bursting with potential.  It will be drinkable for a decade or more.”  90-93 points

Wine Spectator, June 30, 2009
“Deliciously ripe, smooth and supple-textured, with rich layers of black cherry, blackberry, plum, spicy floral and anise scents.  Firm and concentrated, yet elegant and refined, delivering the flavors on a tight beam.  Drink now through 2016.”–JL  93 points

 

2006

Robert Parker, Wine Advocate #180, December 2008
"There are 1,600 cases of the 2006 Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast, a 100% destemmed cuvee made from Dijon clones 667, 828, and 777.  It reveals classic Cote de Nuits aromas of damp forest floor, black raspberries, cherries, and spring flowers.  With terrific fruit, full body, ripe tannin, and a round, generous, savory mouthfeel already displaying tremendous complexity, it should drink well for 7-8 years.  Almost half of the fruit comes from Pahlmeyer's own 24-acre Pinot Noir parcel at his Sonoma Coast vineyard called Wayfarer."  94 points

Stephen Tanzer, International Wine Cellar, May/June 2008
"Good medium ruby. Pretty aromas of red cherry, strawberry and flowers.  Supple on entry, then tight in the middle, even slightly hard-edged, with intriguing suggestions of spice and orange rind.  Quite closed on the back end and a bit youthfully ungiving today.  I would never have guessed this pinot had a pH as high as 3.8, not to mention 15.1% alcohol.  From vines planted in 2001 and 2002.  89 points