2005 Etude - Pinot Noir Temblor Vineyard Estate Pinot Noir - USA - California - Carneros - Carneros/Napa - Red

($60; from a windy part of the estate vineyard, on cobbly clay soil) Good full medium red. Raspberry and leather aromas are lifted by an enticing floral element. Sweet, supple and fine-grained, with firm acids enlivening the raspberry and floral flavors. Finishes with very good spine and length. This vintage has a better balance, a lower pH and a more vibrant character than 2006, notes winemaker Jon Priest.

The Temblor Vineyard is only the second designated Estate source ever used by Etude, joining Deer Camp. The eastern facing vineyard enjoys well drained rocky soils as well as the cooling influences of the Petaluma Gap. Temblor was custom planted by the winery to conform to the soil (there are six distinct categories). I look for many excellent vintages in the future from here.

Shows fragrant cherry, licorice and black raspberry in the nose. The palate highlights spicy plum and bits of violet with delicately formed acidity on the finish.