A strongly flavored blush forward and bold in cherries raspberries vanilla smoke and spices and even suggestions of exotic mulberries. Dark in color too. Made mostly from Pinot Noir it can stand in for a red wine with filet mignon. Should develop in the bottle beyond 2011. - S.H.

The 2005 Brut Rose is an authentic rose with the grapes left on the skins to extract the deep rose color. A blend of 81% Pinot Noir and 19% Chardonnay aged 4 years on the yeast in the bottle it boasts abundant aromas of framboise wild strawberries and a hint of pomegranate. Its medium deep rose color is one that is normally associated with some of the Moet-Chandon Dom Perignons which tend to be a relatively deep rose color. Medium-bodied with loads of flavor and a crisp dry finish it should drink well for 3-4 years.