This is a big, ripe, full-bodied and oaky Pinot Noir. It’s too powerful to drink now, unless you don’t mind immaturity. The raspberry, cherry and blood orange flavors are of the pie-filling type, and the oak sticks out in smoky, vanilla sweetness. Give it 4–5 years in the cellar to come around. ——S.H.(7/1/2010)—— 90

The dark ruby/purple-tinged 2003 Pinot Noir Lafond Vineyard boasts plenty of substance and structure along with crisp, underlying acidity, excellent depth and richness, and copious quantities of beet root, black pepper, gamy, peppery characteristics. Enjoy it over the next 5-6 years. Lafond appears to be on the right track, producing wines with more nuances, texture, and character.Tel. (800) 225-3633

A little too big and extracted for finesse, this full-bodied wine is almost Rhonesque. It’s dark, with cherry jam and mocha flavors, and is a bit soft and hot. Lots of new French oak piles the smoky, vanilla flavors on. ——S.H.(11/1/2006)—— 86

The 2002 Pinot Noir Santa Rita Hills’ deep ruby color is followed by a rich, sweet berry, forest floor, spice box, and briery-scented perfume with a hint of oak in the background. It possesses good opulence in addition to underlying acidity that provides zestiness. Drink this medium to full-bodied, flavorful Pinot over the next 4-5 years. Tel. (800) 225-3633