2005 Cellar Reserve Pinot Noir

There are some terrific red wine bargains in Penfolds’ portfolio. But first, some unusual, but successful reds are being released in the United States. The 2005 Pinot Noir Cellar Reserve (all from Adelaide Hills) displays an authentic Pinot Noir character in its bouquet of sweet and sour cherries, dried herbs, forest floor, and nicely integrated wood as well as acidity. Bottled unfined and unfiltered after spending nine months in equal parts new and old French barriques, it possesses a beautiful texture, surprising weight, and a European sensibility. This beauty demonstrates how far this estate’s winemaking team has progressed in making high class Pinot. It should drink well for 5-6 years. Importer: Southcorp, PWG Vintners, Napa, CA; tel. (707) 258-8755