Gerard Raphet, Clos Roche Size:6x750ml

Gerard Raphet, Clos Roche Size:6x750ml(from a . 33 ha parcel, two thirds of which was replanted in 1982 with the remaining vines planted in the 1920s). An exuberantly spicy nose combines pretty floral and fresh red pinot fruit with floral, wood and sauvage hints. The supple medium weight flavors possess fine volume as well as excellent length if only average depth on the balanced and firmly structured finale. Patience advised in order that more complexity can develop.

the wine is deep

The 2008 Pinot Noir Isabelle is a selection of the estate’s 36 best barrels across many of the Central Coast’s finest Pinot terroirs

blackberry pie

The winemaking remains relatively consistent across the years

the wood influence is subtle though not imperceptible on the slightly cooler aromas of lavender

I suspect one will emerge from the different lots of Les Bessards that I tasted as 2009 is certainly a year where enough wine can be culled out for the Cathelin without sacrificing the monumental quality of the regular Hermitage

while the addition of 16% Roberta's Merlot helps fill out the mid-palate beautifully

where it was terrific

dramatic finish supported by serious tannins

Whiffs of herbal tea and various floral nuances add breadth to the ripe and exceptionally fresh red berry fruit scents

It would be nice to see a little more mid-palate depth and persistence

5 ha parcels divided between ¼ Pied d’Aloup