Wine: 2007 Roessler Cellars Pinot Noir la Brisa
Region: California
Sokolin Price: $27.95/btl
Rating: 92 WS
2007 California Pinot Noirs are undoubtedly the best vintage we've ever tasted. We were again reminded of just how incredible they are when we served the 2007 Roessler Cellars Pinot Noir la Brisa a few nights ago at a restaurant in NYC. Dark purple in color, notes of perfume and floral hints emerged upon the first swirl and sniff. It is described by Wine Spectator as "tightly structured, firm and concentrated, with a trim beam of spice, earthen floor, dried currant and cranberry fruit that holds onto its earthy tannins through the long finish." Well said.
The interesting thing for us to note is that the la Brisa was the third wine of the evening and followed a polished legendary heavyweight, a 1995 bottle of Chateau Mouton Rothschild that sells for close to $400/btl. To be candid, the Mouton was absolutely awesome, but at less than 1/14 the price of the Mouton, you initially might think the la Brisa was overshadowed by the legendary first growth wine. But let us say, that simply was not the case; rather this delicious juice held its own, drank very well and was a real crowd pleaser. The la Brisa was very much alive and present that evening.
Our recommendation: If you are a wine lover and haven't sampled the 2007 California Pinot Noirs, you should. They truly are one of the vintages that further define your wine experience and deepen your understanding of what composes a great wine. This 2007 Pinot Noir makes a perfect house wine, and at less than $28/btl, we know from experience that a wine like this just doesn't last. It will leave our facility faster than it came in.