Comes down on the thin side, although it has that light, silky texture you expect from Pinot. There are some cherry and raspberry flavors, and the finish is very dry.——S.H.(11/1/2004)—— 84

Meridian is in San Luis Obispo and most of its wines emanate from the Paso Robles viticultural area. However, Meridian's winemaker, Chuck Ortman, does venture south to buy Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The 1991 Meridian Reserve Pinot Noir from Santa Barbara county is an attractive, easy to understand, richly fruity wine with a soft texture, a spicy, herb, berry-scented fragrance, and lush, round, generous, silky-textured flavors. It should flow easily down the gullet over the next 3-4 years. Tel. (805) 237-6000