Claiborne and Churchill Pinot Noir 2002

What a lovely wine. It showcases the success that Edna Valley enjoyed this vintage. Rich, oaky forest floor, mushroom, hard spice and tomato notes, also red stone fruits star in the complex flavors. Fairly tannic and bone dry, with great balance, this is a wine that will benefit from mid-term aging or decanting. -Wine Enthusiast The Edna Valley AVA, where our winery islocated, is emerging as one of the most excitingregions in California for Pinot Noir. The coolbreezes from the nearby ocean moderate theclimate, allowing for a long growing season,with full flavor development without sacrificingstructure, read more...color, and acidity. We like to think of this wine as a cross-sectionof the Edna Valley appellation, utilizing fruit from eight distinct blocks of three quality vineyards, all within a mile or two of our winery. Few wines reflect their origins as clearly as Pinot Noir; every nuance of the growing season, as well as cultural practices, soils, site, and winemaking leave indelible impressions on the finished wine. Our 2002 exemplifies the unique character of the Edna Valley; brimming with ripe cherry, currant, and berry flavors. Judicious use of new French and Hungarian oak barrels contribute a hint of smoke and toastiness. Deep color, solid structure, and bright acidity are all hallmarks of fruit grown under the influence of coastal fog and ocean breezes, and these attributes shine through clearly in a wine that is rich, stylish, and well-suited for use at the table. Pinot Noir is the most elegant and food friendly of red wines, with the acidity to stand up well to almost any food, and without heavy tannins that can overpower more delicate cuisine. Pair with game, foie-gras, wildgathered mushrooms, and aromatic cheeses.    (hide)

Rating: Critics Challenge 2004 Award - As reviewed by Critics Challenge on 05/01/04 Nice medium body, fine tannin on finish

No written review

November 2007

Rating: San Diego 2004 Bronze - As reviewed by San Diego Int'l Wine Comp. on 04/01/04

Rating: 90/100 - As reviewed by Wine Enthusiast