2005 Alma Rosa Pinot Noir Santa Rita Hills Opened and poured into Riedel Burgundy stems. Garnet hue around the rim. Profound nose...wasn't expecting such complex aromas...strawberry, raspberry and other assorted red fruits plus forest floor, earthy mushrooms, herbaceous floral aromas (lavender?), and a savory, spicy element almost reminiscent of a lighter Cotes du Rhone that evolved throughout the night. Medium body. Palate not nearly as profound as the nose but nonetheless nicely balanced and still quite enjoyable with more ripe, red fruits plus hints of stone. I would drink this now for the heady aromas, which seem evolved and peaking at present. IMHO, much better than the 2004.
Vine 91 (95 point aromatics)
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