1999 Siduri Pinot Noir Santa Lucia Highlands Pisoni Vineyard (California)
The Pisoni Vineyard is home to some of the finest Pinot Noir grapes in California. Producers from Ojai, Testarossa, Arcadian and many others make Pinot Noir from these grapes. The Sidure is perhaps the best I've ever had. Initially the nose was crammed of rasberry, cherry anise and spice. The wine taste wonderful showing great berry flavors and a hint of earth exhibiting it's Pisoni heritage. What a great Pinot Noir from California! 92 points
1999 Rene Rostaing Condrieu La Bonnette (Viognier f/France)
Initially a bit closed on the nose and as a result not the usual aromatics you expect from Condrieu. But the flavors of honey, sweet honey and tengerine are terrific and with the viscosity that make this wine the nektar of the gods. Absolutely complex and memorable. To be fair, the wine was fairly cold upon first taste. But as the wine reached room temperature the wine started showing some tropical fruit and melon notes. This is what viognier is all about. And 1999 a supreme vintage in Condrieu. 90 points.
