There’s still time to buy a case of this for Christmas. Save a few for yourself and give the rest as gifts, for it serves up so much candied cranberry and Christmas spice that it’s a holiday in a bottle. The nose shows pomegranate, candied cranberry, cola, and spices. On the palate it is ripe, with medium tannins and acidity. Flavors are cranberry, raspberry, and Christmas spices, which linger on an extended finish. Drink with rare duck breast in a port wine sauce. Highly Recommended. 90.
WHO: Gary Farrell
WHAT: Pinot Noir
DESIGNATION: Hallberg Vineyard
WHERE: California, Russian River Valley, Green Valley
WHEN: 2011
HOW MUCH: $55