2010 Kistler "Cuvée Catherine - Occidental Station" Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

“Saturated ruby. Expansive, highly perfumed scents of raspberry and boysenberry preserves, cherry-cola and potpourri, plus a bright mineral note and a touch of allspice. Stains the palate with dark berry and exotic spice flavors, with smoky minerality adding lift and precision. Blends depth and vivacity smoothly and finishes with outstanding clarity and lingering sweetness. This sexy, deeply flavored wine is surprisingly approachable right now. (ST)” (06/2013)

“The 2010 Pinot Noir Occidental Station Cuvee Catherine blasts from the glass with waves of seamless dark fruit. A brooding wine, the Cuvee Catherine is endowed with serious power for the year. Ash, smoke, tobacco and incense add complexity as the wine opens up in the glass. The 2010 boasts serious structure, with big tannins supporting the huge, dramatic finish. Readers will have to give the 2010 another year or two in bottle. For now, it is the wine’s structure that dominates. It will be very interesting to see the direction the 2010 takes over the coming years. (AG)” (04/2013)

“Intense and vibrant, well-oaked and balanced, featuring a dense mix of spicy dark berry and raspberry that is pure and persistent. Long finish. (JL)” (09/2013)