Anyone who knows me, knows I’m a big fan of Pinot. Earlier in the summer Rodney Strong sent me a ‘starter kit’ complete with a bottle of their ’07 pinot, which I loved. Once I told them this, 4 days later I received a bottle of ’08 pinot for review. Man I love being a wine writer!

I enjoyed the ’08 pinot, just about as much as the ’07. It was a gorgeous dark ruby color, even a hint of amethyst ( I love red and purple) This blend is 98% pinot, 2% syrah; both from the Russian River Valley. I’m still working on being a fan of syrah, but it works well in this wine.  On the nose there is a hint of rose petal coupled with various red fruit, especially some black cherry. It has the lovely, chewy, subtly toasted vanilla notes that I love about pinot with an even finish. After the wine opens up a little bit, it is even deeper in character with  notes of french oakiness shining through.