The 2017 Passion has a light color and an inviting rose petal bouquet which may lead you to think this is just another strawberry and cream Pinot but no - this is velvet, seduction and mystery - a wow of a Russian River Valley Pinot Noir showing poise and grace instead of raw power.
On first taste it presents the illusion of a little sweetness but it soon surrounds your entire palate with its subtle brown spice and lush accents of red raspberry, cola, pine cone and dried thyme scents.
Linger over this wine for a while and witness the pure sensation of time rediscovered. We are seeing the secret scent of barely faded rose petals, violet, spices and, with time, underbrush - all indications of an aging Romanée-Conti - again - but no! - simply a wow of a Russian River Valley Pinot Noir!
As a food wine Passion will do justice to strong-flavored meats like venison or feathered game like duck, turkey or goose, braised, in sauce, or simply grilled.
For domesticated dishes, Peking duck or a nice cut of roast veal or pork will be enveloped by the close-packed but elegant tannins of this elegant Pinot Noir.