This Pinot is grown in some of the best areas for this varietal in California. It starts with a healthy nose of dark fruit and leather aromas that are classic characteristics of this varietal. The flavors are soft and creamy, full with overtones of deep, dark fruit. The finish is light on the spice and reinforces all the great cherry and dark-fruit flavors with subtle notes of cedar.

Many dishes would go well with this wine. The first that comes to mind is pan-roasted duck with a dried cherry wine sauce. This dish really brings out all the layers of fruit flavors in the wine. Another great menu idea would be grilled salmon with a garlic-butter sauce.

2006 marked winemaker Margo Van Staaveren's 27th harvest with Chateau St Jean. The great thing about having a winemaker at a property and involved in many aspects of the wine production is a great consistency year after year in the wines. When you find a wine you enjoy the chances are very good that it will be very similar each vintage. She is only the fourth winemaker at this legendary winery.

Cheers!