Paraiso Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterey County, CA, 2007
Santa Lucia Highlands is a top-notch site to grow pinot, and Paraiso boasts the district’s original plantings of Pinot Noir. The mountainside soils, cool breezes and sustainable farming practices of the Smith Family contribute to the creation of world class Burgundian-style Pinot Noir. Let’s taste!
Aromatics: Flowers and smoke permeate this beautiful Pinot’s bright and dark cherry notes. The complexity of the rich (but not dense) plum fruit is enhanced by layers of nutmeg, clove and other baking spices. Alcohol seems in check. This wine is elegant yet has a certain power; it really draws you in.
On the Palate: Loads of rich cherry layers with a touch of smoke. Great acidity and structure. Give this wine some time, as it changes so much over the course of an evening. This pinot would be fabulous with roast duck or foie gras to complement its earth tones. Drink now through 2014.
91 Points. Retail $25. Good value.
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