Grapelive Daily Pick
By Kerry Winslow
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2008 Schug Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast.
I must admit, I almost forgot about this classic Pinot Noir estate, but I am glad I got a sample of this wine to review, and I revived my taste bud admiration for Walter Schug’s Carneros Estate Winery. Even in what most people are finding a lighter vintage, I keep finding balanced and textured Pinot Noirs that make me happy and this is one that I like very much and think is a nice drinking wine that offers great value. The nose has bright fruit and earthy spices with a touch of flower petals and smoke before a silky palate and a crisp fresh finish. Everything is very correct for a Burgundy style Pinot, with more delicate flavors and balancing acidity, making it super with a wide range of foods and given a slight chill also makes it lovely on a warm afternoon, which I plan on this summer! The ruby color is vivid and pretty, the body clean and round, the flavors learn on fresh cherry, and the background has subtle oak, Asian spices, mushroom and cranberry, while the finish is tangy, fresh and crisp.
($21-26 Est.) 90 Points, grapelive
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