WTN: 2003 Capiaux Cellars Pinot Noir Chimera

• 2003 Capiaux Cellars Pinot Noir Chimera - USA, California, Sonoma County, Russian River Valley (4/25/2007)
  Spicy with a tang, yet smooth. Capiaux runs a tad under the radar, but even their entry blend gives excellent value for the money. Plenty of dark fruits, with a slight roasted overtone, on the nose and on the palate. A spicy kick keeps the mid-palate interesting and the finish is lengthy and smooth. I'd like a small bump on the acidic vector--which makes me think that this producer and the '05 vintage will be a good match. Drinking well now. Opened, but not decanted, an hour before dinner. (88 pts.)

Posted from CellarTracker

[James Roscoe]

Would it have helped to have decanted it? Just asking for an opinion.

James, I try to use decanting as a last resort for Pinot Noir. I'd say the hour of air was enough: the wine was open by dinner and didn't change much through dinner.

What was the price? I like to find value Pinots from Sonoma.

JC, I paid around $22 for the '03. The '02 Garys' which I had a few bottles of (and a clear step up) was around $30. I haven't looked for the '05s yet, but I'd guess more a mid-price than bargain wine. Still I do find them a good value.

Okay, thanks Dan.

[James Roscoe]

Thanks Dan, that's the info I was looking for. Keep on posting!