TN: 2006 Seasmoke Southing Pinot

WINE TALK
1

Popped and poured last night, drank out of Riedel Sommelier burgundy glasses.

A nose of dark red fruits, light oak, a hint of earth and dusty. The full bodied wine showed lots of cherry. One dimensional, as cherry was the only flavor present. A long long finish, and the wine had great structure.
Score: B

I’m not sure what to make of this. Great structure, long finish and we all agreed just cherry notes. We’re of the mindset that with so much going on in the nose that this wine has potential but it is a bit disappointing now unless you are a “cherry only” fan.

2

Perhaps, in a few years, it will be more interesting. That said, I tried the 2002 version in early June 2008, and, while quite entertaining, I didn’t find it particularly complex. Had it with 2 friends (aside from a 1988 Joseph Drouhin Chassagne-Montrachet Marquis de Laguiche for starters) because my 1993 Comte Armand Pommard 1er Cru Clos de Epeneaux was hopelessly damaged.

I won’t post my complete notes on the 2002 as it has a lengthy discussion on Comte Armand’s monopole, but my notes on the Seasmoke are as follows:

With Snake River Farm Wagyu steaks for them and roast duck breast on lentils for me:

479×638 50 KB

2002 Sea Smoke Southing - A beautiful, darkly reflective red with a midnight red-violet core. The aromas, initially vaguely truffled and very earthy, are generous with ripe, dark red berries (cherry, raspberry and some strawberry), spice (hints of cinammon), vanilla/oak; all of which were richly and enthusiastically mirrored on the palate in a confidently full body with a touch or kirsch and subtle chocolate and violet undertones. Long and strong, its finish was consistent with its middle. No real mystery or profound complexity here, but a lot of up-front entertainment. (emphasis supplied)

Notably, cola notes, usually at the forefront of California pinot noirs, were barely noticeable. I think this is a good thing. Typically Californian, this wine cannot fairly be accused of refined subtlety or quiet elegance.

I doubt anyone will ever mistake it for a Burgundy, nor should anyone ever expect to. Cali pinot is a totally different animal - more about lively enjoyment and boisterous laughter rather than deep, somber conversation. Each has its place.

As regards the pairing, as can be seen in the picture, the duck is richly sauced. Carlo Miguel’s dishes are robust, enthusiastic and can reach the level of no-holds-barred decadence. Thus, the Sea Smoke was a good, serendipitous match as it easily held its own against my main course. I’d imagine this duck in its sauce would probably have overpowered a 15-year old Pommard.

3

I totally agree. I have a bunch of older Seasmokes, and get more out of them than “just cherry”. I like your comment “entertainment” and may start using that in my notes. [wow.gif] And I agree that Burg is when I want burg, and Cali Pinot is when I want Cali pinot. They should not be the same.

4

i think the 02 Southing is really a tremendous bottle now with a short decant. not Musigny but not Musigny price either.

5

I have never had an 02 Southing, but my 03 took 3rd at FM3’s blind pancakes and pinot tasting. Only Cris and I picked it out as Sea Smoke. And, duh, I LIKE cherries, but since I am not a subtle person, I don’t care about palate complexity, I want great aromatics, taste, and a nice lingering finish.

6

Well, duh, good for you.

7

Gave the 2006 a go last night almost 3 years to the day from the original tn above. Needed 4 hours in the decanter to really show its stuff and that included mild, dark cherries and some tea. No cola, little vanilla and a nice lengthy finish. Tannins seamless now but my guess this bottle is just inside of a solid drinking window.

8

My recent experience

  • 2006 Sea Smoke Pinot Noir Southing - USA, California, Central Coast, Santa Rita Hills - Sta. Rita Hills (3/26/2012)
    Sam’s Farewell Dinner (Nick’s San Clemente): Decanted for an hour and dumped back through the vinturi into the bottle for the trip to the restaurant. Nose is consistent with previous vintages but with the addition of a cedar notes. Palate is tart cherry/raspberry fruit, fairly reserve, with very aromatic cedar finish wrapped with strong acidity. While it was enjoyed by all, it’s not a blockbuster by any means. (89 pts.)

Posted from CellarTracker