Wine By Nine

Red Wine by Brassfield from North Coast, California. This three-and-a-half acre block of Pinot Noir was planted on the valley floor, chosen for being one of the coldest spots on High Serenity Ranch for optimum flavor and color development, better acid retention and gravelly, alluvium soils for the best drainage. The longer, cooler growing season of 2005 ripened the fruit later than typical vintages, and because of the small crop, the grapes produced intense fruit concentration, excellent extraction and good acidity.

Red Wine by Robert Mondavi from North Coast, California. Blend: 76% Pinot Noir, 16% Syrah, 4% Mourvedre, 2% Petite Sirah, 2% Merlot Robert Mondavi 2006 Private Selection Pinot Noir was produced primarily from grapes grown along California's marine-influenced Central Coast. Reflecting the character of the cool, elongated 2006 vintage, which fostered the development of classic varietal aromas and flavors in Mondavi's Pinot Noir grapes, this vivacious red wine's hallmark is fresh, vibrant fruit. In the nose, lovely raspberry and dried cherry aromas mingle with complementary scents of white and black pepper, mint and chicory. On the medium-bodied palate, the wine's supple, silky, berry and cherry jam flavors display a zesty black pepper spiciness in the bright, crisp finish. Enjoy this pert, pretty Pinot Noir with grilled salmon, herb-roasted chicken, baked ham, and lighter pork and duck dishes.