Very rich and quite attractive for its mix of concentrated, never heavy, ripe red cherry aromas seasoned with notes of bacon and dried wild flowers and the slightest hint of roasted walnuts, this, full-bodied, supple wine is a touch velvety in texture even now. Mouthfilling and wholly inviting because its pieces exhibit plenty of harmony, it will never be thought of as shy, but so too does it not give up any of its keen focus and balance, and its tasty finish is quite long-lasting. With room to improve, it belongs in the cellar rather than on the table.

The 2011 Pinot Noir Altamont achieved good ripeness before the damaging rains hit. Revealing a light medium ruby color, it offers up lots of sweet black cherry and wild strawberry fruit intermixed with spice and earth notes. The gorgeous aromatics are followed by a medium to full-bodied, lush palate with crisp acidity. It should drink well for 4-7 years. - Robert M. Parker, Jr.