Lucia Gary's Vineyard Pinot Noir 2007

This Pinot Noir was a new sensation for me. My first reaction was "Roasted chestnuts??"

It was well-balanced, comfortably full-bodied and smooth, just the right amount of tannins, and I'm not gonna even talk about the acidity of it because it didn't matter. I loved the smokiness. I think this wine would age quite well, it would only get richer. This is a great dinner wine that is fun to discuss.  

Location: Pacific Palisades

Castle Rock Pinot Noir 2008

This Pinot Noir from California was smooth and round. No edgy acidity even after 10 sips!! This wine would go well with almost any kind of food because it is so round. It's thin to medium bodied, I tasted black berries and a bit of vanilla. It didn't give any distinctive aroma, which must have contributed to its overall neutral taste. This is the kind of wine I could drink all day (...not that I have a secret desire to drink all day...no :)

Note to myself, have a light Cabernet with filet mignon rather with Pinot next time. 

Location: Beverly Hills

ALBERO - Spanish Red Wine 2007 Tempranillo Barrica

This Pinot Noir was actually very easy for me to drink, meaning it was smooth and not too dry. It was acidic and kind of woody. Not a complex wine. 

This wine went well with this bow tie pasta cooked in pink vodka sauce with salmon and basil. It, probably the tomatoes, definitely took the acidity out a little from the wine. The combination was just perfect when both the wine and the pasta were in my mouth. 

I couldn't finish the whole glass because this wasn't a "by-itself" wine for me. I'd only drink it with food. 

Location: West LA