The 2006 Pinot Noir En Famille, aged in 600-liter demi-muids, is made from the same suitcase clones that produced the Coteaux Nobles. Deep ruby/purple with a smoky, almost meaty nose intermixed with sweet strawberry and black cherry liqueur, again a floral note, and the forest floor fragrance, it is broad, rich, and fruit-driven, but already complex and promising. This wine should drink nicely for 5-7 years.
Luc Morlet has been traveling a lot, with his older brother taking over for him at Peter Michael, where he still remains in a quasi-consulting role. He seemed to be settled at Staglin Family Vineyards, but that lasted only a few months, and he is doing what he wants now, producing his own wines. These are the debut releases. (While there will be two Chardonnays added to the portfolio, most of this is from the Sonoma Coast.) These are very impressive wines.
Tel. (707) 967-8690; Fax (707) 967-8590