Gabe's View:  "Finding well made Pinot Noir around the $20 price point can sometimes be a difficult chore. The 2006 Wild Horse Pinot Noir makes it a little easier.  This Pinot opens with wild strawberries, bing cherry, vanilla and nutmeg in the nose. While the first sip I took proved this wine to be immediately appealing and accessible, time in the glass or a decanter does wonders to make it even more inviting. The wine's palate is filled with light lavender notes and continued strawberry and cherry characteristics. Mushroom, earth, and spice, particularly lingering nutmeg are the starts of this offering's above average finish. This is a well balanced wine with good acidity. It�ll match a wide array of foods.  What I like best about this wine is its true varietal character. Oak influence is apparent but never overshadows or diminishes the fruit."

Winery:  "The lead horseman in the Wild Horse portfolio, our 2006 Central Coast Pinot Noir shows great balance of fruit, spice, and oak. We pride ourselves in combining the best quality fruit from our favorite vineyards.  Each appellation adds a unique characteristic, aroma and flavor, truly making it a blend of the Central Coast, all following the tradition of Wild Horse�s philosophy of winemaking.

Our 2006 Pinot Noir bursts with aromas of seasoned wood, rose petals, dried cherry, and alpine forest floor, with flavors of pomegranate and Asian spices, with a rich lingering mouthfeel. A versatile wine, this Pinot Noir complements meals of salmon, lamb, poultry and grilled vegetables. Superb now, best enjoyed after a few years in the cellar."

Wired For Wine:  The versatility of the Wild Horse Pinot is perfect for the variety of flavors typically found in any menu.  Its gentle complexity and deliciously balanced notes of fruit give it the ability to pair with many spices from oregano to tarragon, thyme, black pepper and ginger.  Braised greens, onions, root vegetables, fennel and mushrooms are just a few ideas for great ingredients for side dishes which will shine next to this Pinot.  This Pinot will win the blue ribbon every time when you serve it with roast duck or salmon done any way.  Pour a glass and have some room temperature goat cheese (we love Chevrot) while you mull it over.  De-lish!

Size:  750 ml
Vintage:  2006
Varietal:  100% Pinot Noir
Alcohol:  13.9%
Barrel aging:  10 months in French oak (30% new cooperage)
Region:  Central Coast, California