After suffering an atrocious Beringer Cabernet a decade ago, I generally have avoided the winery. After opening the 2008 Pinot to use for cooking (I received it as a gift), I braced myself and gave it a sip. Though perhaps diminished expectations played a part, I found it to be surprisingly unobjectionable. It is thin and has a weak finish and lacks the complexity of a remarkable Pinot, but it is not too tannic and is on the whole a servicable inexpensive table wine.

Pinot Noir for $4.50?!? The nose has some wood, interestingly, with a hint of warm, earthy tannin. Some berry as well. The taste explodes! Rich, juicy cherry and black currant, followed by a bit of raspberry. Nice acidity, and the finish lasts awhile. Simply the BEST inexpensive Pinot Noir I've ever tried!