2006 Auteur Pinot Noir Manchester Ridge

Grabbed this one by accident today, thinking it was an '07. Guess I should have looked closer, but wanted to age this one another 3-5 years before re-visiting, alas, we had to pop it when we got to the K Fusion. Popped and poured, with a nice nose of cherry and sweet creamy vanilla.

On the palate, the fruit was very subdued, and once again shows that my reasoning in wanting cellar this wine for a few more years would have paid off. Bummer. Some hints of sour cherry and strawberry, with a bit of pomegranate. The finish was short, but pleasant. By the end of dinner, the wine was starting to open up and strut it’s stuff. Re-corked and put in the cellar over night, it kind of fell apart over night which I found surprising. This wine definitely has the potential for some pleasant greatness, but if I had anymore, I would hold them for another 3-5 years. Very disappointed that this one got popped so early, but it’s my own fault for not looking at the label closer.

RELEASE ALERT - Auteur Wines

The March 2008 release was announced today from Auteur, and this is always a must buy with their highly rated wines. Unfortunately, I missed out on the Fall 2007 mailing, but was lucky enough to get on the Spring 2008 list, and purchased all 3 bottles I was allocated. If you are not on their mailing list, this is one I would recommend signing up for. And as always, remember that you are not obligated to purchase. To sign up, check out their website at: http://www.auteurwines.com/

This Spring release consists of:

2006 Hyde Chardonnay, Carneros Napa

2006 Manchester Ridge, Mendocino Ridge

2006 Sonoma Stage Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast

Check out the release notes for more information. Also note that on rare occasions, you might be able to find these wines at some of the local stores in NJ. The Canal's on Route 1 in Lawrenceville/Princeton has had their wines on a few occasions. Check them out and see if they live up to some of their 100 point reviews! Cheers!