Connoisseurs' Guide to California Wine "Among the bigger, riper, more fully stuffed Pinot Noirs... Its deep, dried-cherry, oak and violet aromas are met by like-minded, ripe-fruit flavors that are at once both powerful and positively unctuous...there is simply no arguing with its abiding richness and its impossible-to-ignore sense of scale and fruity volume." 2 stars. The Dallas Morning News "There is a silky, dense and succulent explosion of fruit and spice – impressive yet controlled, and powerful yet elegant. The Reserve is not yet in Texas. Watch for it; harass your retailer to get it. It’s worth the trouble." California Grapevine "Medium ruby; attractive, herbal, spicy, ripe black cherry fruit aroma with a hint of chocolate; full body; big, intense, concentrated, spicy, herbal, textured, woody, ripe cherry fruit flavors; medium-full tannin; lingering aftertaste." Highly recommended. Robert M. Parker, Jr.'s The Wine Advocate "It offers excellent plum and cherry scents along with smoky, spicy oak. Medium to full-bodied, moderately tannic, pure and nicely textured, this youthful Pinot will be even better in another year." 90 score. The Wine News "Brooding, dark garnet hue. Restrained, elegant nose of red fruit, basil pepper and licorice. Unbridled fruit courses across the palate with concentrated cherry flavors leading the charge; a dash of cinnamon adds zest. Long finish marked by a core of chocolate." 90 score. Wine & Spirits "The full, rich aroma predicts this will be a serious, tasty pinot, and the generous flavors don't disappoint. It's filled with a black raspberry appeal, and even as the dry tannins cut the fruit flavor, it doesn't go away. Warmth comes across in scents of cola and chocolate..." Wine Spectator "Pleasantly complex and polished, with enough firm cherry, herb and berry to sustain it. Drink now through 2002." .