Recently Tasted California Pinot Noir

2013 CIRQ. Treehouse Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., pH 3.53, TA 0.575, 1,748 cases, $125. Clones 23, 37, Calera, CC, Pommard and Swan. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. Earthkissed aromas of purple grape and boysenberry jam. Powerfully fruited with expressive and sappy purple and black fruits embellished by a touch of oak. Cashmere tannins make for a suave, velvety mouthfeel. A sensual, loquacious wine that has an impressively long and generously fruited finish. Score: 92

2013 CIRQ. Bootlegger’s Hill Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., pH 3.60, TA 0.58, 694 cases, $125. Clones 23, 37, Calera, CC, Elite and Pommard. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Soaring aromas of fresh dark red and black stone and berry fruits with a sexy spice component. A glamorous wine that offers impeccable balance between sweet, sappy purple fruits and firm structural integrity. The mouthfeel is seductive, the acidity gives energy and lift to the prodigious fruit, and the extraordinary finish defies description. Still wonderful two days later from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. A masculine wine with a sensual side. Score: 95

2014 Domaine De La Côte Memorious Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir

13.0% alc., 470 cases, $60. · Light reddish purple color in the glass. The nose gives up its charms slowly over time in the glass, offering lively aromas of dark red cherry, spice and rose petal. Modest in weight, and rather delicate in demeanor, but packing a punch with juicy flavors of black cherry, black raspberry and exotic spice. The dry tannins are well proportioned, and the cut of citrus-driven acidity lifts the wine to a high-spirited finish. Score: 92

2014 Domaine De La Côte Bloom’s Field Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir

12.5% alc., 1,020 cases, $70. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Exotically perfumed, with aromas of black cherry, pine sap, rose petal and spice reflective of whole cluster inclusion. Light to mid weight in style featuring redder fruits including cherry, raspberry and cranberry. A slight leafy, herbal thread, presumably from whole cluster inclusion, adds a savory note. Elegantly composed, with a fresh, juicy personality and a bright, upbeat finish that lingers. Score: 93

2014 Domaine De La Côte La Côte Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir

12.5% alc., 820 cases, $90. 100% whole cluster. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. A searching nose that mesmerizes the drinker with aromas of cherry, cola, pipe smoke and smoky caramel that picks up noticeable intensity over time in the glass. This wine has a little more of everything, including fruit sap, oak and tannin, but they all blend seamlessly in this mid weight plus offering featuring dark red fruits. There is a charming briskness and freshness to this wine that encourages the drinker to linger over every sip and refreshes for the next taste. The finish is of Grand Crus length as well. This is the stuff that Pinot dreams are made of. Dreamers can expect this wine to age beautifully for ten years or more. Score: 98

2014 Domaine Della Keefer Ranch Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., pH 3.55, TA 0.57, 250 cases, $70. Aged 15 months in French oak barrels, 45% new. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Aromas of very ripe, slightly confected cherries, spice, raisin and maple lead off. Luxurious core of black cherry and blackberry fruits push the ripeness envelope, crossing over to a prune note. Well-composed, with silky tannins, and an oak-driven caramel and brown sugar accent. The Keefer Ranch seemed to give riper fruit in the 2014 vintage. Score: 89

2014 Domaine Della Terra de Promissio Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., pH 3.52, TA 0.59, 175 cases, $70. Aged 15 months in French oak barrels, 47% new. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. I was seduced by the aromas of black raspberry and blackberry jam with a compliment of toasty oak and spice. A mid weight plus styled wine with a juicy core of black raspberry and black cherry fruit that arrives in waves on the palate. Sleek and balanced, with a satiny mouthfeel, gossamer tannins, restrained oak persuasion, and a fruit-filled finish. This wine offers the pleasure of both finesse and power. Score: 92

2014 Dutton-Goldfield Devil’s Gulch Vineyard Marin County Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., pH 3.54, TA 0.61, 560 cases, $68. A steep, terraced vineyard located in far western Marin County owned and farmed by noted vineyardist Mark Pasternak. Dijon clones. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. The aromas of blackberry essence, spice cabinet, earth and mulch draw you into the glass. Impressive fruit purity is on display in this middleweight offering with flavors of blackberry, black raspberry and boysenberry underlain with oakdriven notes of smoke and tobacco. Juicy acidity, soft tannins and a sustained finish make for a very pleasurable drinking experience. Score: 92

2014 Dutton-Goldfield Azaya Ranch Vineyard Marin County Pinot Noir

13.8% alc., pH 3.53, TA 0.61, 375 cases, $58. Vineyard is located in cold and foggy valley in western Marin County. Vineyardist Mark Pasternak planted the 18-acre Azaya Ranch for the McEvoy family on a south and west facing hill in Hicks Valley. Clones are 667, “828,” 115, 777 and Wädenswil 2A. This wine contains 667, “828,” and 115 clones. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Initially elusive, the aromas of dark red and purple berries, spice cabinet and even roseate arrive over time in the glass. Attention-grabbing attack, expansion and finish, with a mid weight essence of boysenberry and black raspberry fruits kissed by a variety of spices. The most tannin in the 2014 lineup, this wine exhibits a slight astringency on the finish at present. Still, this wine is fresh and giving, and ready to go now. Score: 92

2014 Dutton-Goldfield Angel Camp Vineyard Anderson Valley Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., pH 3.55, TA 0.57, 313 cases, $58. Farmed by Brian Zalaznick, this vineyard is located on the western side of Philo on a slope above the Navarro River. 11.5 acres of Dijon and heritage clones planted in gravelly soil. This wine is composed of Pommard, “828,” and 667 clones. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. The perfume of blackberry jam, black tea, roseate scent, and herb seasoning is quite satisfying. Mid weight flavors of blackberry, baking spices and coffee are nicely balanced with the t n’ a. Satiny in the mouth, with an array of dark fruits fanning out on the finish. Score: 90

2014 Dutton-Goldfield Dutton Ranch Emerald Ridge Vineyard Green Valley of Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., pH 3.67, TA 0.60, 646 cases, $62. This vineyard, first planted in 2001, is situated on a ridge outside the small town of Graton. Vines are planted in Goldridge soil. Clones for this wine are Pommard, Wädenswil 2A, 667 and “828.” · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Welcoming aromas of blackberry reduction, sous-bois and vanilla. Crisp and lively in the mouth, with a mid weight core of boysenberry and blackberry fruit framed by perky acidity and modest tannins. A gracious wine, with oak vanillin in the background and a pleasing finish showing off fresh blackberry essence. Score: 91

2014 Dutton Goldfield Fox Den Vineyard Green Valley of Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

13.8% alc., pH 3.41, TA 0.67, 565 cases, $62. This vineyard is located at the western border of Green Valley just above the town of Occidental. Soils are Goldridge sand loam. Dan Goldfield and Steve Dutton planted this 8-acre vineyard in 2002 on the home site of Ed and Sue Smith. Dijon clones 667, 777 and 115. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. The nose offers a plethora of savory scents including earthy flora and herb seasonings as well as raspberry and mocha notes. Very fresh and lively in a mid weight style featuring flavors of strawberry and red and black raspberry. Highly engaging and generous, slightly creamy in texture, modest in tannins, and finishing with a crispness that appeals. This wine has all the features that we have come to relish in Pinot Noir: perfume, texture, elegance and freshness. Score: 94

2014 Dutton-Goldfield Dutton Ranch Freestone Hill Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., pH 3.60, TA 0.64, 657 cases, $72. This vineyard, planted in 1996 and 1997, is located a few miles inland from Bodega Bay on a south-facing hillside above the town of Freestone. This very cold site produces tight bunches and tiny, thick-skinned berries. Clones are 115, Wädenswil 2A and 114 co-fermented, and 667. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Dark berry fruited on the nose with a mid weight plus nucleus of lush dark stone and berry fruits lifted by good acidity and framed by discrete tannins. Satiny in the mouth, with enviable balance, good richness without being jammy, and noticeable intensity on the finish. Score: 92

2014 Dutton-Goldfield McDougall Ranch Vineyard Fort Ross-Seaview Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., pH 3.58, TA 0.63, 475 cases, $62. Farmed by Mac, Rich and Barbara McDougall, this vineyard is situated on a high elevation (1,100 feet), south-facing ridge. 9 acres of Dijon clone Pinot Noir first planted in 1998 upon the urgings of Warren Dutton. Neighbors are Hirsch vineyards and Martinelli vineyards. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. The nose reminds me of blackberry jam on a warm croissant. Comforting in the mouth, with a mid weight core of glorious black cherry, black raspberry and blackberry fruit framed by slinky tannins. Very charming, with a juicy freshness that is uplifting. Score: 93

2014 Dutton-Goldfield Deviate Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.4% alc., pH 3.55, TA 0.63, 325 cases, $72. The 8th small Pinot Noir bottling (DV8). A deviation from the winery’s single vineyard focus, this wine is a blend from two favorite vineyards, Jentoft Vineyard in Green Valley (Calera selection planted in 2003) and Ellenbach Vineyard near Annapolis. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. Aromas of damp earth, pine and mashed blackberries soar from the glass. Rich and luxurious, with a charge of well-spiced boysenberry and blackberry fruits that saturate the palate and adroitly fade slowly through an enduring finish. Quite sappy, yet possessing a nimble demeanor. Firm, but supportive tannins supply a backbone for aging in this marvelous wine. Score: 95

2014 Halcón Wentzel Vineyard Anderson Valley Pinot Noir

13.1% alc., pH 3.39, TA 0.53, 160 cases, $35. This organically farmed vineyard is located at 500-feet elevation on a steep, northwestern-facing hillside exposed to the cool, foggy influence of the Pacific Ocean. A blend of Dijon clones. 35% whole cluster, native fermentation, no acid or alcohol adjustment, and aged in French oak barrels including a single new Francois Frères oak puncheon (20% new oak total). Bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Low aromatic interest, with very shy scents of blackberry and spice. Light, earth-kissed flavors of cherry, blueberry and blackberry. Simple, and easy to drink, with modest tannins and some finishing power. A nice wine, but not extraordinary. Score: 88

2014 Halcón Oppenlander Vineyard Mendocino County Pinot Noir

13.3% alc., pH 3.54, TA 0.52, 160 cases, $32. Vineyard is located 10 miles east of the coastal town of Mendocino and is one of the coolest vineyards in California. Dry farming and low vigor soils lead to small berries and clusters. 66% Pommard clone and 33% Dijon 115 clone. Native fermentations, no adjustments for acid or alcohol. 30% whole cluster. Aged in French oak barrels, 25% new. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. The nose reminds me of a walk in a dark cave, with damp earth notes and black cherry in the background. The mid weight black cherry and blackberry fruit flavors have noticeable mid palate presence. Slightly rugged, with firm, gritty tannins and a slightly astringent finish. Score: 88

2013 Keller Estate La Cruz Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., pH 3.63, TA 0.57, 817 cases, $45. Primarily Pommard clone. Tight vine spacing and low yields from the estate vineyard exposed to the strong winds and fog of the Petaluma Gap. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Well-composed aromatic highlights including cherry, raspberry coulis, and brioche. Mid weight flavors of black cherry, black raspberry, spice and a hint of complimentary oak in the background. Forward drinking and easy to like, with good balance and a stately elegance. Score: 90

2013 Keller Estate El Coro Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., pH 3.62, TA 0.587, 396 cases, $52. The El Coro Vineyard is high on a ridge top. The name translates to “The Choir” in Spanish. The site is windy with extreme growing conditions and planted to extensive clonal variation. 6 clones including “828,” 667, 115 and a La Tache selection that creates the backbone of this wine. Aged in French oak barrels, 27% new. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Very seductive aromas of dark cherry, exotic spices including cardamom and refined oak. Silky and elegant, with a mid weight thrust of engaging black cherry, blackberry and spice flavors with a subtle earthy tone and a touch of umami. Good tannic bones and a lasting, powerful finish complete the experience. Score: 93

2013 Keller Estate Precioso Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., pH 3.63, TA 0.57, 70 cases $75. A special barrel selection from the 2014 vintage. 100% de-stemmed, aged in French oak barrels, 35% new. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. A sophisticated offering with seeking aromas of dark cherry, blueberry, mushroom, underbrush and oak spice. A delicious array of darker fruits greats the palate with aplomb, expanding in the mouth and lasting like what seems 30 seconds on the finish. Perfect harmony, a deft touch of oak spice, and an earthy, savory bent that adds interest. Texturally very interesting, featuring dry, suede tannins that predict age ability. A regal offering that will please any Pinot connoisseur. Score: 94

2013 Kessler-Haak Ohana Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., 650 cases, $40. Clones 113, 114, 115, 667, 777, and Wädenswil 2A. Aged in French oak barrels, 17% new. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. Initially, the nose is primarily savory with aromas of earthy flora, brier and barrel, with shy cherry fruit showing up over time in the glass. Discreetly concentrated, juicy and silky, with a mid weight core of black cherry and dark berry fruits accented with notes of anise, tea leaf and dark chocolate. Good balance, with a modest finish. Score: 89

2013 Kessler-Haak Synergy Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir

14.4% alc., 400 cases, $42. Composition is 55% Pommard, 25% 777 and 20% 667. Aged in French oak barrels, 10% new. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Aromas of blackberry and tobacco oak lead to a middleweight styled wine with plenty of black cherry and black raspberry fruit flavors to satisfy. Seamless and silky, even seductive in the mouth with some finishing generosity. A solid wine, but I wanted more Pinot perfume and a less tobacco highlights. Score: 89

2013 Kessler-Haak Sanctuary Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., 150 cases, $42. 50% clone 113 and 50% clone 114. Aged in French oak barrels, 10% new. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. Pleasant scents of cherry pie, bakery and toast. Rich and bold in a mid weight plus style, filled with luscious black cherry fruit that saturates the mid palate, yet silky and polished and easy to like. Fruit-driven and plush, and hard to resist. Score: 90

2013 Kessler-Haak Intuition Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir

13.21% alc., 50 cases, $42. 100% Wädenswil 2A. Aged in French oak barrels, 0% new. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. The nose is primary, with little to report other than aromas of potpourri. More giving on the palate, with a robust core of well-ripened black raspberry and blackberry fruits underlain with a green note, finishing with juicy, slightly tart acidity. This clone is known for providing aromatic lift, but it is absent in this wine. Score: 87

2013 Kessler-Haak Four Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir

14.7% alc., 50 cases, $42. 100% Pommard. Aged in French oak barrels, 50% new. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Soaring aromas of cherry, spice, bark and rose petal. Modest in weight, but highly flavorful, with a well-spiced core of fresh cherry fruit framed by supportive oak. The cherry fruit is perfectly ripened with appropriate phenolic expression. Highlights include silky tannins, immersed alcohol, and a hedonistic finish that really holds on. For me, Pommard clearly produces the most engaging single clone wine among all the Pinot Noir clones. Score: 92

2013 Kessler-Haak Symphony Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir

14.04% alc., 75 cases, $42. 50% clone 115 and 50% clone 777. Aged in French oak barrels, 33% new. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. The nose is primary, offering little to describe. The big boy of the lineup, with generous bass in this symphony. Fullboded flavors of black fruits and mocha with oak seasoning in the background. Satiny in the mouth, with firm but slippery tannins, finishing with a bold charge of fruit. Cellaring would be advised to allow time for the nose to arrive. Score: 90

2014 Kosta Browne Keefer Ranch Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.6% alc., pH 3.50, TA 0.62, $90. An Estate vineyard (Kosta Browne bought 20 acres of Keefer Ranch in 2013, but Marcy Keefer continues at the helm of Keefer Ranch) located in the southwestern corner of the Russian River Valley planted in Goldridge soils. Clones are 115, Wädenswil 2A, 777, “828,” Pommard, Swan, Calera, 114 and 23. Grapes are destemmed, fermented in 5-ton stainless steel and wood open top tanks after a 5-day cold soak. Aged 16 months in French oak barrels, 40% new. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Nicely perfumed, with enticing aromas of black cherry, blackberry jam and oak spice. A mouthful of well-spiced and fully ripened dark stone and berry fruits engage the palate and fan out on the finish. The oak is beautifully married, the texture is silky, and the fruit-driven finish has good length and satisfying intensity. Score: 91

2014 Kosta Browne Gap’s Crown Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., pH 3.55, TA 0.585, $90. Kosta Browne has worked with this property since 2006 and now have a long-term lease of 37 acres. Clones 114, 115, 667, “828,” and Swan. 100% de-stemmed, 5-day cold soak, fermented in 5-ton open-tops, 1-ton wood open tops, and 16% fermented and aged in concrete. 84% aged 16 months in French oak barrels, 25% new. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. Aromas of black cherry, blackberry and toasty oak arrive slowly over time in the glass. The mid weight core of unbridled forest-toned dark fruits satisfy as does the slippery mouthfeel. Sturdy on the palate with an oak-driven mocha thread. Impressive balance, with uncommon persistence on the powerful finish. Score: 92

2014 la pitchoune VDK Sonoma Mountain Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., pH 3.73, TA 0.54, 48 cases, $58. Sourced from Van der Kamp Vineyard. Dijon 777 and “828,” and a La Tache selection. Harvest Brix 22.0º-24.8º. Aged 24 months in French oak barrels, 50% new and 50% once used. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. You will want to go on sniffing this wine that offers very pleasing aromas of cherry and earthy flora. Beautifully composed, with a succulent core of cherry fruit enhanced with notes of cola, spice and earth. Fresh and juicy, with pedigreed fruit flavors, an age worthy tannic backbone, impeccable oak integration, and a satisfying finish. Score: 93

2014 la pitchoune English Hill Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

13.1% alc., pH 3.63, TA 0.58, 98 cases, 98 cases, $58. Dijon 115, 667 and a Vosné-Romanee selection. Harvest Brix 23.2º-23.7º. Aged 11 months in French oak barrels, 25% new, 25% once used and 50% 4 years or older. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. A relentless nose that pumps out aromas of dark red cherry, sassafras, and sandalwood over time in the glass. Juicy mid weight flavors of black cherry and black raspberry play in harmony with tannins and acidity, and persist on the finish that is immensely satisfying. My only nit is that oak chimes in a bit too much. Score: 90

2014 Mignanelli Highlands Ranch Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., $32. An 18- acre vineyard planted in 2001. Native fermentation, 40% whole cluster with hand and feet punchdowns. Clones are 115, 667, 777 and Pommard. Aged in French oak barrels on the lees, 20% new. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. The nose evolves over time nicely, offering scents of briery black cherry, game, rose petal and vanilla. Modest in weight, with flavors of black raspberry, black plum, blackberry and tobacco. The whole cluster contributes more to the nose than palate, but does not generate unwieldy tannins. The wine picks up approachability and finishing intensity over time in the glass. Score: 90

2014 Mignanelli KW Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., $32 (sold out). A 6-acre vineyard planted in 2000 by Kirk William located between Rosella’s and Garys’ vineyards but lower in elevation. Soils are decomposed granite with quartz. Native fermentation, 60% whole cluster, hand and feet punchdowns. Clones are Pommard and 667. Aged in neutral French oak barrels. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Dark reddish purple color in the glass. Aromas of black cherry, cola, spice, sweet pipe smoke and even a hint of diaper. Full-bodied, with a delectable sweet black cherry core accented with notes of spice and stem. The fine-grain tannins are modest and the wine tempts with a pleasing finish. The added whole cluster adds more nuance and interest in this wine. A manly, daring wine that remains very agreeable. Score: 92

2013 Portalupi Russell Family Vineyard Paso Robles Pinot Noir

15.5% alc., 240 cases, $60. Vineyard is located on the western side of Highway 101 and is planted in shallow, rocky calcareous soil. The site experiences large temperature variations from highs of 90 degrees to lows of 40 degrees. Harvest Brix 27º. Pommard and Dijon clones. Aged 12 months in Francois Frère French oak barrels, 25% new, 75% 1-year-old medium plus toast. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. Aromas of nutty oak and earthy flora obscure any fruit on the nose. Lush, plush and fruit-driven, this is an opulent wine featuring black raspberry and blackberry flavors veering to raisin. This wine is reflective of this warm site and I have always found wines from this vineyard to be very tannic like this wine is and more like Zinfandel in character. That said, this wine does honestly reflect the terroir, and seems to stay relatively balanced. Score: 89

2014 Portalupi Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

15.2% alc., 327 cases, $30. Harvest Brix 25.0º. Clones are Martini 13 and 15, and Wädenswil 2A. Aged 14 months in French oak barrels, 20% new, 60% 1- year-old and 20% 2-year-old, medium plus toast. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. The very ripe black fruit aromas are slightly stewed and are accompanied by scents of forest floor and oak bark. Full-bodied, with husky tannins, in a fruit-driven style featuring a rich core of well ripened black cherry fruit accented with a savory mushroom note. The alcohol is balanced by the hedonistic core of fruit and tannins and the wine shows no trace of alcoholic heat on the finish. Score: 89

2014 Portalupi Dolinsek Ranch Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

15.0% alc., 118 cases, $40. Dijon clones. Harvest Brix 25.0º. Aged 14 months in French oak barrels, 40% new, 40% 1-year-old, and 20% 2-year-old. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. Aromas of dark berry mash, spice, seasoned oak and prune lead off. Very ripe and sappy, even slightly roasted dark fruits are featured backed by modest tannins. There is a welcome hint of oak spice seasoning, the mouthfeel is silky, and the wine displays admirable balance. If you don’t mind fruit pushed to maximum ripeness, you will like this nicely crafted wine that is stylistically unique. Score: 89

2013 Roessler Wine Cellars Guidici Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., pH 3.73, TA 0.536, 68 cases, $68. Vineyard is located 4 miles south of Occidental amidst coastal redwoods in the extreme southwestern end of the Sonoma Coast. Native yeast fermentation, aged 14 months in French oak barrels, 50% new. · Light cherry red color in the glass. Inviting aromas of cherry, spice and sous-bois that persist over time in the glass. Elegantly style and satiny in texture, with light to mid weight flavors of cherry, Damsel plum and blueberry with an add earthy flora accent. Peach skin tannins, admirable balance, skillful touch of oak, and a modest but enduring finish. Score: 92

2013 Roessler Wine Cellars Day Ranch Anderson Valley Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., pH 3.77, TA 0.536, 647 cases, $38. Vineyard is located in one of the cooler parts of the Anderson Valley and is a 30-year-old, dryfarmed site. Entirely composed of a heritage Beaujolais clone of Pinot Noir, a true rarity. Native yeast fermentation, aged 14 months in French oak barrels, 20% new. · Light reddish purple color in the glass. Aromas of earthy cherry, rose petal, mushroom and sandalwood lead off. Elegant in demeanor, with a light to mid weight core of cherry and blueberry fruits accompanied by a thread of herbs. The tannins are noticeable yet genteel, the wine offers good harmony, and finishes with a high cherry note. Score: 90

2014 Roessler Wine Cellars Bogey Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., pH 3.65, TA 0.555, 150 cases, $42. Vineyard is located at 1000 feet elevation overlooking the town of Sonoma and is exposed to cooling winds from San Pablo Bay. Co-fermented clones 115 and 777 using organic French yeasts. Aged 15 months in French oak barrels, 16% new. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Aromas of black cherry, peppery spice and wine cellar lead to a mid weight styled wine that is cherry driven with added accents of cola, spice, coffee, and savory herbs. Mild tannins, with a modest, but juicy finish. Score: 89

2014 Roessler Wine Cellars Hein Vineyard Anderson Valley Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., pH 3.80, TA 0.49, 94 cases, $54. Vineyard is in the far northwestern end of Anderson Valley in proximity to cool Pacific breezes. Native yeast fermentation, aged 11 months on lees in French oak barrels, 25% new. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. A remarkably nuanced wine with aromas of black cherry, blackberry, grilled beef, spice, sous-bois and mulch leading to enticing mid weight plus flavors of black raspberry, blackberry, spice and mushroom. A relatively bold yet honorable wine with silken tannins and some noticeable aromatic persistence on the finish. Score: 92

2014 Roessler Wine Cellars Lennox Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., pH 3.55, TA 0.61, 135 cases, $54. Vineyard is located in the cool southwestern edge of the Russian River Valley and planted in Goldridge soils. Composed of Dijon clones 667, 777 and 115 all fermented separately. Organic yeast fermentation, aged 14 months in French oak barrels, 40% new. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. The perfume of blackberry, blackest cherry, potpourri and oak vanillin draws interest, while the mid weight plus core of purple and black berry sweet fruits provide a hedonistic charge of pleasure. The most concentrated wine in the lineup, with healthy supporting tannins and a thread of oak in the background, finishing with some length and intensity. My nit would be this wine does not show the signature characteristics of Russian River Valley Pinot Noir. Score: 89

2013 Windy Oaks Estate Les Deux Grands Cru Special Release Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

13.7% alc., pH 3.39, TA 0.69, 24 cases, $105. Estate grown, produced and bottled. This single barrel was so outstanding that it was deserving of its own special release. Partial native fermentation, 30% whole cluster, aged in a single new French oak barrel for 25 months. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. · Aromas of fresh berries plucked from the vine, cherry, spice and a touch of barnyard. Tremendous attack of black cherry fruit with accents of rhubarb and baking spices, and a hint of nutty, toasty oak. The texture is dreamy and the finish goes on and on. Even better the next day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, with round shoulders, soaring aromas, and flavors of spiced cherries wrapped up in an elegant package. Score: 96

2014 Windy Oaks Old Vine Chalone Mt. Harlan Pinot Noir

13.7% alc., pH 3.45, TA 0.68, 48 cases, $65. These sourced old vine grapes were crushed, fermented, aged and bottled at Windy Oaks Estate. Dick Graff took over Chalone Vineyard in the Gavilan Mountains in the mid 1960s. The vines had been originally planted by a Frenchman in 1919. Graff nursed the vines back to health and planted new vines. This bottling is the result of a small allocation from Graff’s early plantings. Partial native fermentation, 50% whole cluster, aged 21 months in French oak barrels, 50% new. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. · Light cherry red color in the glass. Complex aromatic gifts including black cherry, sous-bois, briar, spice and nutty oak, reaching more heights with time in the glass. A connoisseur’s wine that is not propelled by rich fruit but rather by nuance and complexity. Mid weight flavors of cherry, red berry and spice are surprisingly intense considering the light color of the wine. Elegantly crafted and perfectly balanced, with fine grain tannins, juicy acidity, and an astonishingly long, orgasmic finish. This wine brought back memories of my encounter with a 1990 DRC Romanée-Conti wine many years ago. Not a powerhouse, but like an angel that is heaven sent. Score: 97

2014 Arthur Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.6% alc., pH 3.49, TA 0.77, 50 cases, $35. Winemaker Takahiro Momoi sources grapes from the Green Valley of Russian River Valley for this bottling. Aged for up to 14 months in seasoned French oak barrels. · Light cherry red color in the glass. Aromas of cherry, bark, and tobacco lead to a middleweight styled wine featuring flavors of oak-kissed black cherry, tobacco and cola. A welcoming satiny mouthfeel and more fruit lushness than one would expect from the modest color makes for good drinking. The cherry fruit has a slight confected tone and there is a bit too much oak overlay, but otherwise this is a commendable wine. The wine was better the following day when tasted from a previously opened and re-corked bottle with better oak immersion and more flamboyant cherry and spice flavor. Score: 89

2015 Copain “Tous Ensemble” Mendocino County Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., 6,500 cases, $28. An appellation blend from Abel, Nelson, Hein and Hennenberg vineyards. Aged 9 months in neutral French oak barrels. · Moderately light cherry red color in the glass. Pleasant aromas of cherry, pomegranate and cranberry are echoed in the light weighted flavors. Simple, but satisfying, with sleek tannins, a refreshing lift of acidity, and a modest finish. A solid, harmonious, everyday drinker. Score: 88

2014 LIOCO Saveria Vineyard Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir

12.4% alc., pH 3.57, TA 0.58, RS 0.1 g/L, $55. Vineyard located near the town of Aptos, 4.5 miles from the Pacific Ocean. Clones 115, 667 and 777 planted in the late 1990s. Soils are well-drained sand and calcerous marine deposits. Farmed by noted vineyardist Prudy Foxx. Harvest Brix 21.5º. Clones co-fermented with wild yeasts. 20% whole cluster. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. Complex nose offering aromas of cherry, exotic spices, leather saddle, stem, earthy salad greens and subtle oak. Light to mid weight flavors of cranberry, strawberry and red cherry are delicately composed and underlain with an herbal thread. Both savory and fruity in a gentle style finishing better than on the attack. Noticeable tannins show up on the finish. Score: 88

2014 MacRostie Goldrock Ridge Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.8% alc., 441 cases, $56, screwcap. This vineyard is located in the remote reaches of northwestern Sonoma County, a few miles from the Pacific Ocean near Annapolis. At 780-feet elevation, the site is exposed to marine air that frequently brings fog. The result is delayed ripening of mature vines which are grown on low vigor, gravelly loam soil. Clones are 777 and “828.” 100% de-stemmed, inoculated yeast strains, 3-day cold soak, pump-overs and punchdowns. Barrel aged for 17 months in French oak, 40% new. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Lovely aromas of fresh blackberry compote and spice. Exuberant mid weight plus flavors of black raspberry and boysenberry satisfy on the attack and mid palate. Highly flavorful, beautifully ripened fruit backed by crisp acidity and filigree tannins in an impeccably balanced wine that deserves high accolades, especially for the intensely fruited, ebullient finish. Score: 94

2014 Sea Smoke Southing Sea Smoke Estate Vineyard Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir

14.6% alc., pH 3.45, TA 0.63, $60. Cool microclimate, southern exposure, clay soils and low yields. Vineyard has been farmed organically and biodynamically since 2013. 1 to 4-day cold soak, inoculated cultured yeasts, total maceration time of 14 to 18 days. Aged 16 months in French oak barrels, 55% new. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Dark berries and stone fruits with a hint of spice are featured on this very pleasant nose. A luscious, but not overbearing array of dark fruits have an earthy bent and are well supported by vital tannins. Soothing in the mouth, with a deft touch of oak seasoning, integrated acidity, and a lengthy, blackberry-driven finish. Still very young, and will benefit from more time in the cellar. Score: 92

2014 Talley Vineyards Rosemary’s Vineyard Arroyo Grande Valley Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., 625 cases, $70. Three generations of family farming in the coastal San Louis Obispo County. The wine is grown, produced and bottled by Talley Vineyards. SIP Certified Sustainable. · Moderately light reddish purple color in the glass. The nose sports deep aromas of dark red fruits and sous-bois. Modest in weight, with a focus on dark red cherry and raspberry fruit flavors with an earthen riff. Barrel treatment is gracious. The tannins are supportive, the mouthfeel is silky, and there is good length on the acid-fueled, lip-smacking finish. Score: 91