2004 Copain Pinot Noir Cerise Vineyard

It sure is nice having friends with a cellar that is not nearly as young as our is. Tom also has a great choice in wines that he brings to dinner, and as usual, this was no exception. This is a pinot that is drinking very nicely with a few years in the bottle. This was popped and poured tonight at Under the Moon, and was a treat. Gorgeous dark ruby color in the glass, that was very fragrant right out of the bottle. As we waited to have a toast, I could smell this as the glass sat on the table, and it had a very fragrant nose. Nice raspberry and blueberry notes on the nose, with a subtle hint of spice and oak. On the palate, more dark fruits, raspberry, cranberry, cherry, and hints of spice and clove. This was delicious, and I am glad that the others moved onto the zin as I got to finish the last of this bottle. The finish was nice and smooth, very well integrated, and left me wanting more. What a treat, and I think I know a place where I can find this vintage locally. I true treat! Thanks Tom and Denise! 90 Points! Cheers!

2002 Copain Pinot Noir Cerise Vineyard

Not your typical pinot from Copain, but who knows, may have had poor storage conditions prior to my purchase. This wine was definitely lacking in the typical California fruit parade. The nose was definitely muted, with the faintest hints of red fruits. Nothing at all stood out. On the palate, tiny hints of cherry and strawberry, with a short, bitter finish. I thought maybe this just needed to open up with time, but it didn't seem to get any better. Maybe this was just a bad bottle, or maybe the '02 is over the hill now. 84 points. Cheers!