All 90s! Pinot Report Wine Review
January 20, 2009
On December 30, 2008 the Pinot Report posted the latest scores for Arista's 2006 Pinot Noirs.
Russian River Valley Pinot Noir 2006
Medium ruby color; ripe, spicy red cherry aromas; rich, ripe, lush red cherry, spice and earth flavors with sweet oak, silky texture; good structure and balance; long finish. A ripe, bright Pinot with terrific balance and just the right weight for most dishes.
1,000 cases made $40 Score: 92
Longbow Pinot Noir, Russian River 2006
Medium ruby color; deep, earthy aromas with some spice and cherry; rich, earthy flavors with complex red cherry and a slight herbal note; sweet oak; good structure and balance; long finish. Complex, earthy and deep, this is a Pinot that needs some time in the glass to open up. Once it does, serve it with a beef stew.
1,000 cases made $48 Score: 93
Mononi Vineyard Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley 2006
Medium ruby color; spicy, cola and slight herb aromas; ripe, rich spicy earthy red cherry flavors, some spice and cola notes; sweet oak; good structure and balance; long finish. Complex and spicy Pinot with really nice structure that bodes well for patience in the cellar. Drink now with a good hour or so of air.
200 cases made $54 Score: 94
Toboni Vineyard Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley 2006
Medium ruby color; ripe, stewed red cherry aromas with some baking spices; rich, ripe, deep stewed cherry flavors, spicy notes; silky texture; good structure and balance; long finish. Silky, rich and ripe, this is a Pinot that's just a delight to drink on its own or with grilled chicken.
298 cases made $54 Score: 93
Nicol Vineyard Pinot Noir, Wild Horse Valley 2006
Medium-deep ruby color; deep berry aromas with some spicy notes; big, rich, ripe berry and spice flavors; moderate tannin, toasty oak; good structure and balance; long finish. Big and spicy; this Pinot is a bit outside the usual taste profile for Arista Pinots in terms of weight and a more angular berry-driven style. It's interesting, nonetheless. Give it plenty of air.
164 cases made $54 Score: 91