While I have the fondest memories of Domaine Drouhin Oregon Laurine, the pinot noir named for Veronique's eldest daughter, fickleness almost overcame me as we sampled the 2003 Pinot Noir, which had a great nose, lots of fruit, and ended on a silky tone. This could age 10 plus years and if you can still find it under $40, buy it!

The Drouhins are happy with their 2004's, as they should be, and they suggest drinking them in 2007 or so. They will be a good buy, since it is expected that prices will be reasonable.

Drink, enjoy and look forward to the next royal visit. Hail Drouhin!

Joel M. Fisher Ph.D writes a monthly column for the Chefs de Cuisine Association of California and has been the wine instructor for the Culinary Arts Department, Art Institute of California-Los Angeles. He is Director of Public Affairs for Avalon Hollywood, and as a partner in WineVineandDine conducts wine tastings, wine dinners, and wine-and-food pairings throughout Southern California. His email address is joel@winevineanddine.com