Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate
The deep ruby/plum-hued 2008 Pinot Noir Suerte Vineyard is made from the newer Dijon clones 115, 777, and 667. It offers sweet, ripe black cherry, strawberry and raspberry fruit intermixed with loamy, dusty soil and underbrush notes. Round, pure and precise with good acidity, sweet tannin and a long, medium to full-bodied finish, it is another exquisite Pinot Noir from Paul Lato that ranks just behind his 2008 Lancelot Pisoni Vineyard cuvee.
Winery Notes:
Six barrel lot 50 % New French oak unfiltered Dijon Clones 115, 667, 777.
This vineyard is going from strength to strength. As the vines mature, I was also able to obtain the lease of the best parcels. It is a new expression of Santa Maria Pinot. Elegant and fine with velvety texture, full body and a long finish with assertive tannins.