Well, Speaking of Fort Ross Wines

These are the first scores ever given to Fort Ross by the Wine Spectator - not too shabby I say! Check out what I said over a year ago on the blog in January 2006 (link on the right). Cheers - Ali

WINE SPECTATOR ONLINE:
Tasting Highlights: 2004 and 2005 California Pinot Noir
More great wines as vintages shift gears
James Laube

Posted: Friday, March 23, 2007

Three years ago, if someone told you there would be dozens, even hundreds of outstanding California Pinot Noirs to savor, you might have raised a skeptical eyebrow.

Here's another wave of Pinots for your consideration, from the 2004 and 2005 vintages. While there are stylistic differences between the two years, both offer plenty of exciting wines.

The 2004s are well balanced and deep in fruit and are generally riper and richer in flavor than the 2005s. The 2005s are generally more elegant, subtle and refined, yet still ripe, concentrated and flavorful. It's one of those win-win situations.

Alcina, Dain, Fort Ross (with four bottlings) and Zepaltas are among some of the newer brands gaining in quality.


FORT ROSS Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast Reserve Fort Ross Vineyard 2004
92 POINTS - $49
Deep and complex, with wonderful earth, clay, spice and earthy berry flavors that become more expansive on the palate, with dense, chewy currant, mineral and anise. Ends with a long finish and ample tannins. Drink now through 2012. 370 cases made. —J.L.

FORT ROSS Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast Symposium Fort Ross Vineyard 2003
92 POINTS - $32
Ripe, plush and deep, with complex plum, blackberry and wild berry fruit that's supple and polished, finishing with a long, intense aftertaste that keeps the fruit at the forefront. Drink now through 2011. 688 cases made. —J.L.


FORT ROSS Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast Fort Ross Vineyard 2004
91 POINTS - $39
Fragrant, spice, wild berry, black cherry and floral notes. Intense yet supple, polished and elegant, ending with a delicate fruity aftertaste that lingers. Drink now through 2011. 953 cases made. —J.L.


FORT ROSS Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast Fort Ross Vineyard 2003
91 POINTS - $37
Supple, rich and polished, with smooth blackberry and black cherry fruit that's focused and long on the finish. Drink now through 2011. 600 cases made. —J.L.