An exotic, deeply spiced wine, the 2002 Pinot Noir Jensen Vineyard is in a beautiful spot today where the flavors are nicely mellowed by time yet supported by plenty of mid-palate richness. Firm tannis shape the persistent, textured finish. This was the last year in a drought cycle that started in 2000.

Deep red-ruby. Raspberry, strawberry, brown spices and pepper on the nose, along with smoky oak and meaty nuances. Sweet, dense and velvety in the mouth, with impressive energy and thrust to the flavors of raspberry and strawberry syrup and minerals. The peppery suggestion of stems carries through in the mouth. With extended aeration, this showed much wilder notes of plum, cherry and gunpowder, while retaining a sappy freshness and density that reminded me of a Bonnes-Mares. Finishes with fine, dusty tannins and excellent lingering sweetness.

The deep ruby-hued 2002 Pinot Noir Jensen Vineyard boasts gorgeous black raspberry, cherry, and floral characteristics as well as hints of damp earth and forest floor, medium to full body, moderate tannin, broad, savory flavors, and a long, heady finish. Given this single vineyard’s track record, the 2002 should evolve for 10-15 years or more. I would not be surprised to see it merit an even higher score with additional bottle age. Tel. (831) 637-9170