Cobblestone is a California winery making New Zealand Pinot Noir. The Cobblestone
estate was established in 1971 by Saul Levine and his wife Anita. After successfully
planting 50 acres in Monterey's Arroyo Seco appellation, the Levines looked to expand
Cobblestone's vineyard holdings. So they purchased a property in Napa's Atlas Peak
region, followed by another in New Zealand that they deemed perfect for Pinot Noir.
Although it requires an enormous amount of travel and coordination, the Levines believe
that growing their grapes in these three specific environments is the best way to produce three distinct varietals: Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir. The 2009 "Te Muna" Pinot Noir is a medium-bodied wine boasting racy acidity.
Its aromas hint at bright red cherry, blackberry and currant as well as black licorice and
forest floor. Up front, its flavor is cherry and red raspberry with sophisticated herbal
notes and pleasant but subtle wet stone on the lengthy finish. Try it with an herb-rubbed
roast loin of pork, seared duck breast with cherry sauce or a hearty fish stew. After
dinner, serve it with a plate of soft goat's cheese with dried cherries and apricots.