2005 Williams Selyem "Ferrington Vineyard" Anderson Valley Pinot Noir

Even in its extreme youth, this lovely Pinot shows a supple elegance that's almost drinkable now. Almost, but not quite. The tannins are ripe and smooth but thick, and the young raspberry, cherry and tangerine fruit needs time to develop and mesh with the oak. But it's a beautiful wine, Williams Selyem's best Ferrington in memory, and a near-perfect expression of Anderson Valley Pinot Noir.

Bright ruby. Very sexy aromas of raspberry and cherry-cola, with a vibrant mineral overlay. Lush and velvety but at the same time bright and energetic, with fresh cherry and red berry flavors. Cabral told me that the pH here was 3.45 after the malolactic fermentation. (JR)