Capiaux Cellars Pinot Noir Sonoma County Chimera 2006

Winemaker/proprietor Sean Capiaux produced only 485 cases of the '03 Chimera Pinot Noir. Thirty percent of the Chimera fruit comes from "Gary's Vineyard" - the infamous site planted with La Tache vine cuttings. Brilliant dark ruby in the glass with savory-sweet aromas of kirsch, plum and truffle. Initially, fresh red currants burst on the palate in flashy Pinot Noir style, but the lasting impression here is of a richer, more concentrated wine - blackberry-cola swirls at its depth, adding a supple weight. Capiaux, also winemaker for O'Shaughnessy winery, has a star-studded resume which includes Peter Michael, Jordan, and Pine Ridge.

Strikes a perfect balance between elegance and power. Initial flavors of intense, ripe cherry and raspberry set the stage for hints of vanilla, earth, and cinnamon spice. The finish is long and smooth, with tannins that melt away seamlessly.

The 2005 Pinot Noir Chimera has a beautiful nose of red currants, a touch of pomegranate, and some forest floor notes. Gorgeous fruit, medium to full body, silky tannins, and a plush texture all make for a sensual Pinot Noir experience at a very fair price. Drink it over the next several years.

Huge and sweet, this wine retains its vinous character even as it's superripe. The spicy tannins and black fruit are more like syrah in character than pinot, but it is delicious, especially with a flank steak marinated in red wine and shallots.

Bright, perfumed aromas of red cherry, raspberry, eucalyptus and rose petal. Juicy, spicy and lively, with intense yet delicate flavors of musky red fruits. A pretty wine with a light green quality lurking and some slightly dry tannins. From a blend of vineyards; this is Capiaux's entry-level pinot.

More beet root, black currant, plum, and cherry characteristics are found in the 2008 Pinot Noir Chimera Vineyard. With an attractive smoky earthiness, abundant fruit, full body, and good richness, it should provide pleasant drinking over the next 4-5 years.

Capiaux Pinot Noir Chimera Vineyard A beautiful nose of red currants, a touch of pomegranate, and some forest floor notes. Gorgeous fruit, medium to full body, silky tannins, and a plush texture all make for a sensual Pinot Noir experience at a very fair price.