Wine Review – Fess Parker 2006 Pinot Noir Santa Barbara County

Fess Parker is probably better known as Davey Crocket by the “Baby Boomers”, but most recently (for almost 20 years) he is making a name for himself as an owner of a great winery. Fess Parker’s winery located in Los Olivos, California is producing some very high quality wines. This 2006 pinot has a nice bouquet with a light garnet color. It does have high alcohol content at 15.5%, but doesn’t have a bite like most high alcohol wines. On the palate there is a burst of spice and then you get some berry flavors. It is a well-balanced wine, especially considering the high level of alcohol, and a nice lingering finish. This wine could age a couple of years but is very enjoyable now. We enjoyed it with grilled chicken and fresh green beans but I am sure it would be perfect with a piece of grilled salmon. I don’t remember exactly what this bottle retails for, but I am pretty sure it was in the $22-$28 dollar range. I suggest you pick up two bottles, one to have now and one to hold for a couple of years.

Cheers!