2005 Paul Hobbs Pinot Noir Russian River Valley – USA, California, Sonoma County, Russian River Valley (5/3/2010)
Extremely tasty and easy drinking. This in-your-face Pinot is not subtle, but the slightly fizzy, cherry cola, unsweetened cocoa, thyme, and menthol form a very fun package that while not an intellectual exercise, certainly are a party. Lively now, there’s certainly no rush. (88 pts.)

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With an excellent meal at Go Fish (St Helena, CA):

1993 Kistler Chardonnay McCrea Vineyard – USA, California, Sonoma County, Sonoma Mountain (4/30/2010)
One has to have some faith when taking a 17 year old bottle of Chardonnay to a restaurant, especially if you bought it on the secondary market. Your odds of success go up with a Kistler. We love the way most of his wines age and this McCrae was a standout. Lovely dark gold color. Roasted almonds on the nose. Unexpectedly, there was a distinct tropical fruit character to this wine, primarily bananas and pineapples. Bready with just a touch of lemonbutter(?). Gives the overall impression of refreshing lightness and yet still has a long finish with so much going on. Superb. (94 pts.)

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