In 2006, the Cargasacchi Jalama vineyard produced Pinot Noir light in color, but boasting extremely intense fruit. The wine aged 15 months in French oak barrels of which 50% new. The color is somewhere between burnt orange and pale red and looks just like 5 year old Burgundy.

The nose is ripe and focused with a bouquet of strawberry pie and roasted caraway seeds, juicy watermelon rind, expanding to include barnyard and sweet mold.

Again I get a great balance of acid and fruit on the palate (though I admit, that is my number one goal) and some great earthy notes as well. Minerality, wet rock, salt, coupled with sour cherry, carob, and mole (the Mexican sauce, not the small, furry, burrowing animal).

90 Cases produced

Other Current Wines

• 2006 South Mesa Syrah 'Elevage Reserve'
• 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon 'Elevage Reserve'
• 2006 Bien Nacido Vineyard Chardonnay
• 2006 Cargasacchi Jalama Pinot Noir
• 2006 Le Bon Climat Vineyard Pinot Noir
• 2006 Calmant Creek Vineyard Pinot Noir
• 2006 SB Highlands South Mesa Syrah
• 2006 SB Highlands Cabernet Sauvignon