2006 Coteaux Nobles Pinot Noir

Morlet, who comes from a Champagne family, obviously loves Pinot Noir, and his 2006 Pinot Noir Coteaux Nobles has that wonderfully fragrant forest floor and floral note that always reminds me of a DRC Richebourg or Grands Echezeaux. This dark ruby/purple wine reveals beautifully sweet raspberry and black cherry fruit, with a floral note well-displayed. It is broad, rich, intense, yet light on its feet. There are 350 cases of this gorgeously complex Pinot to drink over the next decade. Luc Morlet has been traveling a lot, with his older brother taking over for him at Peter Michael, where he still remains in a quasi-consulting role. He seemed to be settled at Staglin Family Vineyards, but that lasted only a few months, and he is doing what he wants now, producing his own wines. These are the debut releases. (While there will be two Chardonnays added to the portfolio, most of this is from the Sonoma Coast.) These are very impressive wines. Tel. (707) 967-8690; Fax (707) 967-8590