With pleasure, Uzi and I tasted barrel samples of our 2009 Pinot Noir last weekend. Uzi was down at the winery topping the barrels so he pulled several samples and thoughtfully called me over to taste with him.
Each time we sample, a different wine seems to be the favorite. The first time around it was our Corona Creek (Sonoma Coast) samples. Next time we preferred the Beresini (Carneros.) The third time, we tasted with Steve Beresini (he grows what else? our Beresini.) Steve liked them all but in the end he “admitted” that at that moment in time, he preferred the Corona Creek. This last time that Uzi and I tasted, our Lauterbach (Russian River) seemed to be the winner. This, I think, reflects three things: 1) the different vineyards expressing unique characteristics; 2) the nature of Pinot Noir and how it changes and evolves in the barrel, in the bottle and in the glass; and 3) that we will end up with three distinct Pinots and definitely something for everyone.
April 12, 2010 at 10:59 am
I needed a Pinot Noir appetizer and found the Bleu Cheese and walnut recipe from your May 2009 blog. It was a hit….but I added my own twist and wish to share. I diced dried apricots into and hand stirred them into the cheese blend. Served with crackers…a hit!!
Bon appetit!
April 12, 2010 at 5:13 pm
John, glad you found our Pinot Noir and appetizer post. And thanks for sharing your addition–sounds yummy! Wish we could have gotten a bottle of Stomping Girl to you in time for your party. Keep us mind for next time!