8th Annual
Pinot Noir Shootout & Summit

Scores: Men Judges
Scores: Men Judges Bang for Your Buck
Summary

= Love at First Sip

Dierberg Vineyards 2006 Estate Pinot Noir
Santa Maria Valley, $42.00

4400 cases produced

(96) Lime Green
Female: Mushrooms, truffle and dried cherry aromas delivering the same on entry. Bright cherry kicks in mid-palate with soy notes adding to the complexity. Satiny mouthfeel. Well structured with satisfying fruit and spice.

Russian Hill 2007 Estate Vineyards Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley, $36.00

1106 cases produced

(95) Dark Gray
Female: Lovely complex fusion of fruit, spice and delicate oak on the nose. The palate displays fresh tart cherry, red plum, slight black pepper, and vanilla. There is an appealing creaminess to the palate and then tart acid on the long finish.

Sonoma Coast Vineyards 2007 Freestone Hills Pinot Noir
Sonoma Coast, $40.00

450 cases produced

(95) White
Female: Blueberry pie and vanilla aromas open to ripe cherry, raspberry and plum flavors accented with nutmeg and white pepper. This wine is balanced with well integrated oak and zippy acidity.

Artesa 2007 Pinot Noir
Carneros, $24.00

20664 cases produced

(94) Magenta
Female: Forest floor and herbal aromas open to caramelized cherries scents. A beautifully structured wine with cherry and cranberry layered with enticing herbs on the lingering finish. Good oak integration and nice acidity.

Champagne Pommery Wintertime Blanc de Noirs
Reims, Champagne, $60.00

(94)
Female: Sweet pastry aromas leap from the glass and persist through the palate. Layers of yeast, citrusy lemon chiffon pie and apple flavors. A touch of bitterness on the finish.

Gloria Ferrer 2006 Brut Rose
Carneros, $42.00

2000 cases produced

(93)
Female: Golden hue with a touch of an orange/pink hue. Citrus and cherry notes on the nose. "Really pretty! Yummy! Enjoy it with food - just open another bottle to share." 92% Pinot Noir, 8% Chardonnay

Left Edge 2008 Timberline Block Sea Ridge Vineyard Pinot Noir
Sonoma Coast, $40

300 cases produced

(93) Purple
Female: Aromas of black and red berries mixed with foresty notes. Crushed herbs, cola and juicy berries on the palate showing layer upon layer of complexity. A perfect balance of earth, fruit, acid, and tannins!

Windsor Vineyards 2006 Blanc de Noirs Sparkling
Carneros, $25.00

2000 cases produced

(93)
Female: Light golden straw in the glass - no hint of pink. Yellow and green apple aromas with citrus notes. Apple flavors including Red Delicious and Fuji are highlighted by citrus accents. Great cleansing acid with a hint of sweetness on the finish that is tempered by a hint of lemon peel.

Balletto Vineyards 2007 Winery Block Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley, $34.00

300 cases produced

(92) Gold
Female: Elegant and subtle. The nose is enticing - a virtual floral bouquet of violets and roses. The palate is lovely and delicate but deep with cherry flavors accented by cedar, earth and anise. The finish is smooth.

CRU 2007 Vineyard Montage Pinot Noir
Central Coast, $23.99

3200 cases produced

(92) Blue
Female: Complex, elegant and subtle. Dark cherry with earthy and wild mushroom accents. Great mouthfeel with a long, smooth finish.

Cumbre of Vine Hill 2007 Barrel 31 Pinot Noir
Santa Cruz Mountains, $59.00

187 cases produced

(92) Lilac
Female: Deep purple-red in color. Tart blueberry and plum aromas with just a dab of sweet cherry. Brambly on the front palate with smoky tones enhancing the plum and raspberry flavors. Moderate weight and length. A very playful and enjoyable wine!

Hahn SLH Estate 2007 Pinot Noir
Santa Lucia Highlands, $29.00

2591 cases produced

(92) Gray Blue
Female: Charming dark chocolate and blueberry aromas. The flavors are intense...bodacious, even - cherry, cola, brown spices. Dense and concentrated. A rich wine. Good balance of acidity.

Lucienne 2007 Doctor's Vineyard Pinot Noir
Santa Lucia Highlands, $38.00

700 cases produced

(92) Turquoise
Female: The nose is layered with cassis, Bing cherry, black pepper, cedar, and soy. The palate has a great texture - smooth and round, replicating the fruit that the nose portends. Lovely spice joins the fruit mid through the long finish.

Nicholson Ranch 2007 Pinot Noir
Sonoma Coast, $42.00

169 cases produced

(92) Orchid
Female: Ethereal and enticing smoked cherry, cola, earthy, and cedar aromas. Well crafted. Beautifully balanced with great acidity.

Shandel's Oppenlander Vineyard 2007 Estate Grown Pinot Noir
Mendocino County, $40.00

250 cases produced

(92) Orange
Female: A complex but subtle wine. Cherries, raspberries and minerals combine to make this a literally "mouthwatering" nose. The palate confirms the aromas. Medium plus acid with tannins to balance. Pair with rare duck breast for a perfect meal.

Vine Hill 2007 Pinot Noir
Santa Cruz Mountains, $30.00

580 cases produced

(92) Wedgewood
Female: A fascinating wine - rich & complex. Dark cherry, cola and vanilla aromas open to a big ripe palate with cherry, cooked red plum, soy, and nutmeg flavors, The finish is long and smooth.

Wild Earth 2008 Pinot Noir
Central Otago, $29.99

7000 cases produced

(92) Burgundy
Female: Lovely and juicy ripe fruit aromas with forest floor backnotes. Wonderful silken mouthfeel. The texture is rich, round and full. Superb balance, complexity and length.

Big Basin Vineyards 2007 Alfaro Family Vineyard Pinot Noir
Santa Cruz Mountains, $42.00

105 cases produced

(91) Brick
Female: Ripe and juicy cherry pie aromas accented by hints of earthiness, leather and caramel extract. The palate is round and appealing. A very approachable wine. Ripe cherry flavors with black pepper spice. Vanilla notes on the finish.

Bjornstad Cellars 2007 Hellenthal Vineyard Pinot Noir
Sonoma Coast, $40.00

195 cases produced

(91) Pumpkin
Female: Light garnet in color with a tinge of purple that fades out to the edge. The nose is very erotic, sexy raspberry and earthy terroir notes. The fruit is beautifully balanced with oak and cedar accents. An expressive and complex wine.

Brophy Clark 2007 Pinot Noir
Santa Maria Valley, $30.00

1100 cases produced

(91) Pink
Female: Vanilla, bourbon notes and sweet oak aromas. Strong blueberry flavors highlighted by ripe cherry, pie spices, cola, and orange peel. Sweet oak through the finish.

David Bruce Winery 2007 Pinot Noir
Anderson Valley, $42.00

759 cases produced

(91) Red
Female: An exotic potpourri of cherry, plum, drying rose petals, vanilla, and violets. Concentrated rich red fruit on the palate with licorice, cinnamon, rosemary, and a slight earthiness. True to varietal.

Heart O' The Mountain 2007 100% Pommard Clone Pinot Noir
Santa Cruz Mountains, $58.00

25 cases produced

(91) Coral
Female: Medium purple-red in color. Blueberry and pomegranate aromas replicate on entry. Cola and vanilla notes mid-palate expanding with mushrooms and earthiness through the finish. A lovely rich wine with plenty of acidity.

Lionheart Wines 2007 Pinot Noir
Sonoma Coast, $40.00

50 cases produced

(91) Bronze
Female: The mushroom and truffle nose pulls you in! Spicy cherry and earthy layers on the palate. Full bodied and beautifully balanced.

Mumm Napa Blanc de Noirs
Napa Valley, California, $25.00

(91)
Female: Yeasty aromas with cinnamon notes. The palate has a creamy texture. The flavors are reminiscent of a bowl of strawberries and cream. Nice finish. Beautifully balanced and elegant.

Scott Cellars 2008 First Mesa Sierra Madre Vineyard Pinot Noir
Santa Maria Valley, $36.00

147 cases produced

(91) Light Yellow
Female: Woodsy with bright dark cherry, red plum, pomegranate, and black pepper aromas. On the palate there is rich cherry, sage, big pomegranate, plum and well integrated oak.

TR Elliott 2007 Three Plumes Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley, $40.00

150 cases produced

(91) Khaki
Female: Plum, raspberry, baking spice and hints of cedar jump from the glass. Juicy and full on the palate with tangerine, floral notes and black raspberry on the end. It's very fruity on entry and moves into a great wine as the complexity is unveiled. Nice earthy tones on the finish.

Amisfield 2007 Pinot Noir
Lowburn, New Zealand, $35.00

6000 cases produced

(90) Black
Female: Root beer, Asian spice, soy, black cherries and plum aromas arise from the glass. Smooth on the palate. A seamless wine with lots of exotic attributes. Tannins are a bit aggressive at the finish but will mediate with time.

Ampelos Cellars 2006 Lambda Ampelos Vineyards Pinot Noir
Santa Rita Hills, $35.00

1000 cases produced

(90) Dark Red
Female: Juicy raspberries, violets, and coffee aromas. Though the fruit is quite dark, there is an elegant quality over the mid-palate with a restrained and silky finish.

Anglim 2007 Bien Nacido Vineyard Pinot Noir
Santa Barbara County, $34.00

135 cases produced

(90)
Female: Cherry and earth nose leads to a juicy palate with cola and mushroom accents. Nicely structured.

Chandon Blanc de Noirs
California, $22.00

(90)
Female: Almonds on the nose. Golden in color with a small hint of orange. Apple on the palate. Really quite sweet in the mouth with nutty notes on finish.

Claiborne & Churchill 2007 Pinot Noir
Edna Valley, $25.00

2380 cases produced

(90) Tan
Female: In the glass the color is a vibrant purple-red with pronounced ripe cherry, blueberry and sour cherry aromas. The palate is lush with generous flavors of cherry, plum and a dash of anise spice. Nicely balanced with good acidity.

David Bruce Winery 2005 Estate David Bruce Estate Vineyard Pinot Noir
Santa Cruz Mountains, $55.00

281 cases produced

(90)
Female: Toasty raspberry and raspberry jam aromas carries through to mid-palate where lighter strawberry notes jump in to complete the experience. Great acid with a long finish. Yum!

David Bruce Winery 2007 Pinot Noir
Santa Cruz Mountains, $30.00

1232 cases produced

(90) Yellow
Female: Aromas of strawberry jam, baking spices and vanilla bean. Raspberry flavors accented with lemon. Light and lively in the mouth finishing with vibrant acidity.

Deaver Vineyards 2007 Pinot Noir
Sierra Foothills, $24.99

112 cases produced

(90) Deep Purple
Female: Fresh and young - a debutante. Earthy, forest floor, dried cherry aromas and flavors. Nice complexity and varietal correctness.

Elk Cove Vineyards 2008 Mount Richmond Pinot Noir
Willamette Valley, Yamhill-Carlton District, $48.00

894 cases produced

(90) Dusty Rose
Female: Very ripe cherry, cassis and raspberry aromas evolve to dense and concentrated flavors on the palate. Raspberry, ripe cherry, cassis and bay leaf with vanilla and violet backnotes. Intense wine.

Eric Ross 2008 Saralee's Vineyard Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley, $40.00

310 cases produced

(90) Hot Pink
Female: Pale in color. The nose displays rose petals, tea, roasted tomatoes, and strawberries. Rhubarb, strawberry and oak accents in the mouth. Smooth and balanced with a long, firm finish.

Exuberance 2007 Exuberance (Reserve) Canihan Family Vineyard Pinot Noir
Carneros/Sonoma Valley border, $60.00

120 cases produced

(90) Blue Green
Female: Round, smooth and sensual, the nose exudes ripe cherry, vanilla, leather, and pipe tobacco aromas. The palate is velvety with ripe cherry, black pepper, big pomegranate fruit and lots of toasted on the finish. This is a big wine that delivers big flavors.

Fulcrum 2007 Pinot Noir
Anderson Valley, $52.00

100 cases produced

(90)
Female: Earth, herbaceous nose with a hint of barnyard. Cherry, black cherry and brown spice are layered on the palate. A lovely addition of herbs persists through the finish. Good acidity.

Gloria Ferrer Blanc de Noirs
Carneros, $20.00

(90)
Female: Lots and lots of effervescence in the glass. Golden in color with a hint of pink/salmon tones. Beautiful aromatics - wow! Enticing yeast, baked dough and layers of stone fruit. Lively. Great structure with fruit and acid in perfect harmony.

Kendric Vineyards 2007 Pinot Noir
Marin County, $35.00

360 cases produced

(90) Aqua Marine
Female: The nose is seductive - marzipan over red and black berries. The flavors are quite complex - black fruit with mocha and rich spices. Round and deep with a classic and elegant Pinot finish.

Kenneth Volk Vineyards 2006 Bien Nacido Vineyard Pinot Noir
Santa Maria Valley, $48.00

477 cases produced

(90) Periwinkle
Female: Great balance! Bold cherry nose. Opens to red cherry then blueberry and raspberry flavors kick in. Texture is smooth and rounded. Lovely spices on the finish.

Kenneth Volk Vineyards 2006 Garey Ranch Vineyard Pinot Noir
Santa Maria Valley, $48.00

365 cases produced

(90)
Female: Cherry, sour cherry aromas and flavors. Great acid. The oak is still prominent but will integrate. This is a nice wine now but will be great with time.

Kenneth Volk Vineyards 2007 Solomon Hills Vineyard Pinot Noir
Santa Maria Valley, $48.00

191 cases produced

(90)
Female: Deeply hued. Jammy black cherry aromas. The palate is concentrated and dense. Powerful cherry and berry flavors with a hint of tobacco in this full-bodied wine.

La Fenetre 2007 Le Bon Climat Pinot Noir
Santa Maria Valley, $55.00

115 cases produced

(90)
Female: Enticing aromas - spicy and earthy. Flavors of dried cherry, cherry, a touch of smoke and plenty of forest floor accents. Good acidity. Elegant. Oh so varietally right on!

La Fenetre 2007 Calmant Creek Pinot Noir
Sta. Rita Hills, $50.00

45 cases produced

(90)
Female: Delicate, subtle perfume (a violet blend), soft leather notes with sweet oak elements of caramel and vanilla. Tangy on entry - tart cherry broadening to red plum, vanilla, caramel, and light toast accents. Great balance.

Nicholson Ranch 2007 Estate, Reserve, Cactus Hill Pinot Noir
Sonoma Valley, $50.00

406 cases produced

(90)
Female: A complex wine with cherries, cola, vanilla, cinnamon and pie crust aromas. On the palate, it is rich and seamless with black cherry, raspberry jam, cola and refined vanillan oak flavors. "Love the elegant finish."

Pacific Coast Vineyards 2007 Babcock Vineyards Pinot Noir
Santa Rita Hills, $62.50

88 cases produced

(90) Gray
Female: The nose is concentrated - rich cherry, raspberry accented by earthy loam. Fruit forward cherry and raspberry flavors are delivered on the palate with lots of vanilla on the finish.

Pegasus Bay 2007 Pinot Noir
Waipara Valley, New Zealand, $42.99

4000 cases produced

(90) Dark Blue
Female: Big, rich, extracted ripe black cherry and brown spice aromas. Ripe cherry and black cherry flavors with mushroom and espresso notes on the finish.

Perception 2007 Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley, $42.00

183 cases produced

(90) Light Green
Female: The complex nose shows cherry, vanilla, cola, sweet smoke, and plum. Raspberry and strawberry flavors with a lovely creaminess.

River Road Vineyards 2007 Estate Stephanies Vineyard Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley, $26.00

997 cases produced

(90) Light Pink
Female: Big forward aromas of Bing cherry, licorice, earth, and spice. Raspberries and cola with hints of chocolate in the mouth. A beautiful example of Pinot.

Robledo 2006 Estate Rancho Rincon Pinot Noir
Los Carneros, $40.00

900 cases produced

(90) Green
Female: Oak and smoke dominate the nose at first with earth and tar notes. Wild cherry and dark berry components add nice depth to the palate. Aeration brings out more complex and beautiful aromas enhancing the enjoyment of this wine. Should age gracefully.

Row Eleven 2006 Pinot Noir
Santa Maria Valley, $36.00

2000 cases produced

(90) Gunmetal
Female: Luscious nose of sweet cherry, rhubarb and dusty tea leaves. A hint of cola appears on the palate to complement the fruit flavors. The texture is elegant...silky and mouth filling. I like how the palate expands.

Russian Hill 2006 Leras Vineyard Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley, $45.00

223 cases produced

(90)
Female: Cherry notes on the nose leading to strawberry and lemon peel flavors in the mouth. Black tea elements and nice acid the finish.

Scheid Vineyards 2005 Reserve Pinot Noir
Monterey, $50.00

229 cases produced

(90)
Female: Alluring smoked cherry, rose petal and preserved spice aromas in the glass. The palate is soft and understated. The flavors are consistent and enduring. Old world styling - absolutely a great food wine.

Sonoma Coast Vineyards 2006 Petersen Vineyard Pinot Noir
Sonoma Coast, $55.00

900 cases produced

(90) Light Blue
Female: Consistent from the aromas of cherry, raspberry and blackberry accented by leather and oak through the seamless palate and balanced finish.

Spy Valley 2008 Pinot Noir
Marlborough, $29.00

8106 cases produced

(90)
Female: Aromas of tree bark and forest floor followed by mushroom, dried cherry and hints of tobacco replicating on the palate. Softening on the finish and then a dash of nice acidity.

Wedell Cellars 2006 Hillside Vineyard Pinot Noir
Edna Valley, $125.00

100 cases produced

(90) Beige
Female: The color is deep red in the glass. Cola, cherry, cranberry, mushroom, and orange rind aromas lead to lush black cherry flavors with hints of all of the elements foretold in the nose.

= An Affair to Remember

Aqua Pumpkin 2007 Pinot Noir
Santa Barbara County, $18.00

1404 cases produced

(89)
Female: Cherry and earth aromas, lifted on the palate. Elegant. Juicy fruit mid-palate. Smooth tannins.

Artesa 2007 Limited Release Pinot Noir
Carneros, $50.00

889 cases produced

(89)
Female: Smoky rhubarb, blueberry, and dark cherry aromas replicate on the palate with nice spices mid to late. Good texture and weight with a slight meatiness.

Canihan Family Cellars 2006 Estate Canihan Family vineyard Pinot Noir
Carneros, $35.00

710 cases produced

(89)
Female: Barnyard (not too much), rich caramel, and vanilla on the nose. Tart cherry surrounded by toasty notes in the mouth. Not extremely complex but who cares? It's delicious!

Davis Bynum 2007 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley, $35.00

6753 cases produced

(89)
Female: Licorice, ginger and cedar on the nose. Flavors of black cherries, dates, black olives with black pepper notes. Easy to like texture. This will have a good, long life.

Fish Eye 2009 Pinot Noir
South East Australia, $7.00

(89)
Female: Smoky cherry aromas open to a juicy palate of cherry and cola with tobacco notes on the finish. Bright and concentrated. Engaging.

Fore Family Vineyards 2007 Pinot Noir
Napa Carneros, $34.00

410 cases produced

(89)
Female: Spice, earth, light smoke at first. The complexity grows like the mouthfeel, It grabs you. Great acid, almost a lenon curd finish. Good food wine!

Laetitia 2007 Les Galets (Estate Block Designation) Estate Pinot Noir
Arroyo Grande Valley, $60.00

155 cases produced

(89)
Female: Oak is predominant on the nose with some cherry backnotes. On the palate, though, the fruit and oak meld nicely. It's all there and plenty of nice acid on the finish.

MacMurray Ranch 2007 Pinot Noir
Sonoma Coast, $24.00

75000 cases produced

(89)
Female: The nose is restrained but opens on the palate with cherry and cranberry flavors accented by earth notes. Nice structure. Nicely balanced.

Mahoney Vineyards 2007 All Estate Pinot Noir
Carneros, $20.00

3500 cases produced

(89)
Female: The nose is many layered, earthy with lovely mushroom notes enhance the black cherry aromas and then there are some roasted meat backnotes. The lush fruit in the mouth is unexpected but very welcome. Great acid. "Really nice!"

Mahoney Vineyards 2006 Estate Las Brisas Pinot Noir
Carneros, $28.00

300 cases produced

(89)
Female: The shy nose displays aromas of candied cherries, roses, green olives, and intriguing floral notes. Flavors of dried cherry with traces of tangerine on entry through mid-palate, expanding to blueberry and some exotic spices on the finish.

Manzoni 2007 Estate Manzoni Family Estate Pinot Noir
Santa Lucia Highlands, $24.00

324 cases produced

(89)
Female: Vanilla, cherry and cranberry on the nose delivers the same in the palate. Anise and spice add complexity. A well balanced wine.

Manzoni 2007 Estate Reserve Manzoni Family Estate Pinot Noir
Santa Lucia Highlands, $48.00

94 cases produced

(89)
Female: The initially reticent nose opens up to tart berry. Flavors of tart cherry with a wonderful chocolate creaminess on the palate. Dusty cocoa on the finish. Beautifully balanced with nice acid. A perfect match for duck with cherry sauce.

Mietz Cellars 2007 Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley, $25.00

900 cases produced

(89)
Female: Smells like ginger snaps - so appealing. Yummy! Cherry flavors. This would be perfect if it had a touch more acid.

Oak Knoll Winery 2006 Red Hill Vineyard Pinot Noir
Red Hill, OR, $24.00

430 cases produced

(89)
Female: Enticing nose of mushroom, strawberry, coconut, and bacon. Delicate at first taste then broadening with aeration. Gains some smokiness too. Plenty of acidity on the finish.

RN ESTATE 2007 Fiddlestix Vineyard Pinot Noir
Sta Rita Hills, $55.00

120 cases produced

(89)
Female: Very exotic. Eucalyptus, camphor, licorice, and black pepper on the nose. Very dark cherry flavors surrounded and enhance by sandalwood notes. Lovely!

Segura Viudas Aria Sparkling Pinot Noir
Cava, Spain, $12.00

(89)
Female: The color in the glass is deep, almost like a light Pinot Noir. Dried cherry aromas repeat on the palate. A simple but nice wine. Great for sweeter wine lovers.

Stephen & Walker 2006 Pinot Noir
Monterey, $39.00

650 cases produced

(89)
Female: Dominant aroma is raspberry. Flavors have more breadth with raspberry carrying through but joined by dark cherry, licorice, and cedar mid through the long, firm finish.

Stephen's 2007 Encell Vineyard Pinot Noir
San Luis Obispo County, $30.00

300 cases produced

(89)
Female: Brooding, slightly caramelized nose with hints of cinnamon, dark cherry and rhubarb. The palate is exotic and spicy...Asian spices surrounding brown sugar coated cherries...sensual and yummy!

Willowbrook Cellars 2008 Kaufman Sunnyslope Vineyard Pinot Noir
Sonoma Mountain, $34.00

180 cases produced

(89)
Female: Oh, so young! The nose is many layered - black cherry, cinnamon, and oranges. The flavors on entry are red fruit based with dusty spices. Mid-palate, the tannins take over. This baby needs time!

Windsor Sonoma 2007 Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley, $35.00

1200 cases produced

(89)
Female: In the glass, the color is a deep purple. Cola and black cherry on the nose. Dark and weighty on the palate with a meaty, husky quality. Blue and black fruits with lots of earth and tar. This is a deep and brooding wine with lots of chocolate in the background. This is a Pinot for those who love the big, bolder styles.

Anglim 2007 Fiddlestix Vineyard Pinot Noir
Sta. Rita Hills, $48.00

140 cases produced

(88)
Female: Black cherry aromas repeat on the palate with heavy oak accents at present. This is a nice wine that needs time to mature. "I would suggest laying it down for a minimum of 6 months before tasting again."

Artesa 2007 Estate Reserve Pinot Noir
Carneros, $40.00

3527 cases produced

(88)
Female: Cherry cough drops on the nose. Intense black cherry heavily framed by oak. Although the oak is prominent now, it will age well. It's all there.

Big Basin Vineyards 2007 Bald Mountain Vineyard Pinot Noir
Santa Cruz Mountains, $42.00

105 cases produced

(88)
Female: Deep purple-red in color. Plum and rhubarb aromas with a smoky, earthy backdrop. Sweet blue and black fruit flavors highlighted by baking spice...a bit starchy towards the finish but overall, nice texture and weight.

Big Table Farm 2008 Resonance Vineyard Pinot Noir
Yamhill-Carlton, $45.00

94 cases produced

(88)
Female: Pretty nose of cherry with earthy backnotes. The palate is layered with dried cherry, cola and a touch of oak shown in the lovely vanilla notes.

Bogle 2007 Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley, $13.00

30000 cases produced

(88)
Female: Easy to drink and enjoy. Sweet strawberry, vanilla and brown spices on the nose and on the palate. A pretty wine - a supple and elegant Pinot with moderate acidity.

Brandborg 2007 Bench Lands Pinot Noir
Umpqua Valley, $22.00

3786 cases produced

(88)
Female: A lovely, delicate wine. Red and translucent in the glass. Aromas show raspberry with earthy notes. In the mouth, the wine opens to the red fruit with ever so slightly browning mushrooms, earth, cedar, and clove notes. Cleansing acid on the finish.

Brutocao Cellars 2007 Estate, Anderson Valley Philo Vineyard Pinot Noir
Anderson Valley, $28.00

1500 cases produced

(88)
Female: Delicate and slightly elusive aromas. Upon aeration, the wine begins to unfold. Vilolets, spring forest aromas, Bing cherries and subtle spice replicate on the palate. Lovely wine, delicate like the nose.

CRU 2008 Appellation Series Pinot Noir
Santa Lucia Highlands, $32.00

240 cases produced

(88)
Female: Raspberry, cranberry and pomegranate scents deliver the same flavors on the palate with cola and spice backnotes. Nice texture.

Darcie Kent Vineyards 2008 West Pinnacles Vineyard Pinot Noir
Monterey, $30.00

1900 cases produced

(88)
Female: Dried cherry aromas with a hint of smoke, cherry and mushrooms. Aromas are replicated on entry through the finish with the addition of forest floor notes. The wine is showing a bit of age but it's classic Pinot Noir.

David Bruce Winery 2007 Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley, $30.00

6372 cases produced

(88)
Female: Fresh strawberry aromas. Fresh strawberry and raspberry on entry with lemon driven citrus on the finish. Bright, clean and crisp with mouthwatering acids to frame the fruit.

Freixenet Elyssia Brut Sparkling
Cava, Spain, $18.00

(88)
Female: The nose is elusive at first but opens to cranberry notes with mushroom low notes. This is a pleasant, drier style with sweet fruit kicking in mid-palate then plenty of acidity on the finish. This would be delicious with grilled salmon. Great blend of 85% Pinot Noir and 15% Trepat.

Gloria Ferrer 2006 Pinot Noir
Carneros, $28.00

20155 cases produced

(88)
Female: Brown baking spice on the nose with strawberry notes in the mouth highlighted by the spices. Consistent from nose through the finish. There is a meaty quality here, a dense and masculine profile to this wine. "Personally, would like a touch more acid on the finish.

Gloria Ferrer 2005 Single Vineyard Gravel Knob Pinot Noir
Carneros, $40.00

300 cases produced

(88)
Female: Strawberry with a touch of pine in the nose. Pure lovely strawberry in the mouth with orange peel on the finish. Nice acid and tannins that will allow this wine to develop over the next several years.

Hahn Estates 2006 Pinot Noir
Monterey, $20.00

30447 cases produced

(88)
Female: This is a perfect wine to enjoy with grilled salmon. A lighter style of Pinot Noir with cranberry aromas replicating on the palate. Clove and coffee back notes on the finish.

Kendric Vineyards 2006 Pinot Noir
Marin County, $33.00

360 cases produced

(88)
Female: Strawberry aromas and flavors enhanced by black and green tea notes. Nice citrus notes on the cleansing finish. Starting to develop some velvet and elegance.

Kenneth Volk Vineyards 2007 Santa Maria Cuvee Pinot Noir
Santa Maria Valley, $28.00

6317 cases produced

(88)
Female: Rich blue-red in color. Aromas of candied raspberries and blueberries open to a sweet fruit imbued palate with a briary complement. A vibrant peppery mid-palate fades to lingering flavors of dark plums with a touch of menthol.

Kenwood Vineyards 2007 Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley, $18.00

36715 cases produced

(88)
Female: A manly wine on the nose with cherry accented by animal and leather overtones. The aromas are replicated on the nicely weighted palate. There is a peppery aspect that adds depth and interest. "Like this wine!"

Laetitia 2007 Reserve du Domaine Estate Pinot Noir
Arroyo Grande Valley, $40.00

1150 cases produced

(88)
Female: Ths nose is dusty with plum and red currant scents. The palate texture is rich. The red fruit is enhanced by hints of orange peel mid palate. Great food wine. Lamb stew anyone?

Nicholson Ranch 2008 Estate Pinot Noir
Sonoma Valley, $38.00

1295 cases produced

(88)
Female: Rose petals and strawberries in the glass. Fresh strawberry flavors. Nice acid. Nice balance. An elegant wine.

Nicholson Ranch 2008 Barrel Select Pinot Noir
Sonoma Coast, $38.00

161 cases produced

(88)
Female: Rich red fruit aromas opening to black cherry, fig and cinnamon. Black cherry with hints of spice on the palate. Nice acidity. An interesting wine.

Nth Degree 2007 Pinot Noir
Arroyo Seco, Monterey, $59.99

(88)
Female: Opaque and dark in color. Smoky aromas lead to a rich and velvety palate with red and black fruit accented by earthy notes. Cranberry notes on the finish. Nice wine!

Orentano 2007 Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley, $40.00

400 cases produced

(88)
Female: Earthy, cherry nose with vanilla accents replicate on the palate. Nicely balanced showing good varietal character.

Pessagno 2007 Estate Grown Four Boys Vineyard Pinot Noir
Santa Lucia Highlands, $55.00

192 cases produced

(88)
Female: The intense dark nose says..."watch out!" The masculine displays dark red and black fruit, smoke, mushrooms, leather, and dark spice notes. The aromas say Syrah but the fruit flavors are Pinot-like when unveiled. Almost as if the wine is wearing an overcoat.

Pessagno 2007 Estate Grown Lucia Highland Vineyard Pinot Noir
Santa Lucia Highlands, $28.00

1224 cases produced

(88)
Female: Vanilla and cola aromas opens to black cherry flavors with hints of citrus throughout. Rolls nicely on the palate. Balanced. Lingering finish with crisp acidity.

Prix Vineyards 2007 Reserve Estate Bottled Fagan Creek Vineyard: Block 38 Pinot Noir
Napa Valley, $50.00

275 cases produced

(88)
Female: A beautiful color in the glass. Lavender and cherry aromas. Dark cherry with lavender notes in the mouth. Very pleasant with good acidity.

Sand Hill Wines 2007 Durell Vineyard Pinot Noir
Sonoma Valley, $50.00

444 cases produced

(88)
Female: Thanksgiving spices on the nose. Warm cherry pie flavors on entry through mid-palate turning to sour cherry on the finish. Mouthwatering acidity makes this a wonderful food wine.

Truchard Vineyards 2006 Pinot Noir
Carneros Napa Valley, $35.00

4503 cases produced

(88)
Female: Black cherry aromas replicate on the palate where they are enhanced by tarragon and rosemary accents mid through the finish. An interesting wine. Cries for meat - either a rare grilled steak or rack of lamb. Yum!

Ventana 2007 Estate Grown and Bottled Ventana Vineyard Pinot Noir
Arroyo Seco, $28.00

1700 cases produced

(88)
Female: Classic Pinot Noir. Aromas of cherry cola with brown spices - cloves and nutmeg. Raspberry and cranberry flavors highlighted by the spice with a hit of bracing acidity.

Villa Mt Eden 2006 Grand Reserve Bien Nacido Vineyard Pinot Noir
Santa Maria Valley, $25.00

6200 cases produced

(88)
Female: The nose is elusive with a hint of earthiness. Good depth and nice texture on the palate. Dark cherry turning to sour cherry with cinnamon notes, hmmm- cinnamon beignets enhancing the experience. "Yum!"

Adobe Road Winery 2007 Pinot Noir
Sonoma Coast, $30.00

660 cases produced

(87)
Female: Blueberry and deep dark cherry on the nose deliver the same onto the palate. The entry is all fruit with some spice on the finish. The tannins are still prominent and overshadow the acid. Needs some time.

Adobe Road Winery 2007 O'Neel Vineyard Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley, $48.00

330 cases produced

(87)
Female: Toasty cinnamon on the nose, Warm cherry in the mouth with nice brown spices as backnotes, The tannins are still prominent but this wine will age gracefully.

Ampelos Cellars 2006 Reserve Ampelos Vineyards Pinot Noir
Santa Rita Hills, $45.00

520 cases produced

(87)
Female: Light in color. There are earth notes in the restrained nose opening to candied cherry with hints of tangy citrus. The wine is delicately structured with cherry and cranberry flavors on entry getting broader mid-palate as the fruit is complemented by a touch of spice. A balanced wine with a nice finish.

Bjornstad Cellars 2007 van der Kamp Vineyard Pinot noir
Sonoma Mountain, $40.00

134 cases produced

(87)
Female: Clear garnet in color with cherry aromas and hints of a green woodsy component. The aromas are repeated on the palate. At first the mid-palate seems dilutive but broadens as the wine opens - "a sign to me that the wine will age gracefully." Cherry flavors dominate with herbal notes and some chalky cola accents on the finish.

Ciccone 2007 Estate Bottled and Produced Suttons Bay, Michigan Pinot Noir
Leelanau Peninsula, $18.00

1500 cases produced

(87)
Female: Cola and earth notes on the nose. The palate displays light red fruit with interesting spice on the finish. Upon unveiling and discovering that this wine was from Michigan, we labeled this wine a "homerun."

Cono Sur 2008 Visión 68 Old Vine Vineyard Pinot Noir
Colchagua Valley, $15.00

30000 cases produced

(87)
Female: Like walking into a bakery, lovely yeasty aromas of bread baking joined by cherry, black cherry, and vanilla too. Nice acid on the finish. Lighter fruit on the palate than I expected but a lovely wine, nonetheless.

CRU 2008 Appellation Series Pinot Noir
Santa Maria, $32.00

317 cases produced

(87)
Female: Nice smoky blueberry and cooking spices on the nose. The palate tastes just like the aromas portend. The finish displays a layer of cocoa powder - quite appealing.

David Bruce Winery 2007 Pinot Noir
Santa Maria Valley, $42.00

1276 cases produced

(87)
Female: Deep crimson with a purple-red rim. Smoky dark fruit aromas of pomegranate and blueberry with a dusty cherry trailer. Sweet blueberry and raspberry flavors with dusty cocoa. Hints of clove and cedar mid to late.

De Novo Wines 2007 Pinot Noir
Mendocino County, $29.00

104 cases produced

(87)
Female: Aromas are predominately cherry replicating on the palate and highlighted by sour cherry and orange peel flavors. Nice acid on the finish.

Flat Rock Cellars 2007 Reserve Pinot Noir
Twenty Mile Bench, $45.00

230 cases produced

(87)
Female: Some funkiness on the nose - an earthy note, then light raspberry and strawberry aromas. The red fruit carries through onto the palate with orange peel notes on the finish. Nice acidity too.

Gloria Ferrer 2005 Single Vineyard Rust Rock Terrace Pinot Noir
Carneros, $40.00

365 cases produced

(87)
Female: Ruby in color. Cherry cola aromas. Good mouthfeel with cherry at the core, savory spice accenting the fruit. Clean and lively.

Handley Cellars 2006 Holmes Ranch Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
Anderson Valley, $40.00

715 cases produced

(87)
Female: Cola, tar, cardamom, and caraway aromas lead to a rich and soft palate of cherry and ginger with hints of cured beef. Good depth and great acid.

Handley Cellars Pinot Noir 2007 Pinot Noir
Anderson Valley, $30.00

4029 cases produced

(87)
Female: Cranberry and cherry with vanilla accents on the nose and palate. Citrus notes and nice acid on the finish.

Huber 2007 Barrel Select Estate Grown Pinot Noir
Santa Rita Hills, $50.00

120 cases produced

(87)
Female: Very open, generous and appelaing fruit, Raspberry and blackberry, jammy, juicy, ripe and delicious but this is a big wine. More Zin-like than Pinot-like.

Longboard Vineyards 2007 Pinot Noir
Russian River, $35.00

1340 cases produced

(87)
Female: Sweet strawberry, violet, and raspberry aromas lead to a seamless blend of cherry, strawberry, plum, cola and cedar flavors. Nice balance and length on the finish. Smooth and easy to enjoy wine.

Lucas & Lewellen 2006 Goodchild High 9 Vineyard Pinot Noir
Santa Barbara County, $30.00

1127 cases produced

(87)
Female: Fresh light strawberry. A delicious finish. "Is that some lime? Unusual but very appealing." Great acid add lift to the strawberry flavors. A touch of pomegranate and smoke mid to late. Yum!

Mietz Cellars 2006 Carmine's Vineyard Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley, $35.00

150 cases produced

(87)
Female: Very light and translucent in the glass. Light strawberry aromas repeat on the palate with the addition of delicate touches of lavender on the finish. A very feminine wine. Enjoy with lighter style foods to enhance both.

Oak Knoll Winery 2005 Willamette Valley Vintage Reserve Pinot Noir
Willamette Valley, OR, $29.00

578 cases produced

(87)
Female: Root beer aromatics. Dark cherry fruit with lots of oak and prominent tannins. Nice acid. Should age gracefully.

Phillips Hill 2008 Ring Of Fire Pinot Noir
Anderson Valley, $45.00

150 cases produced

(87)
Female: Forest floor aromas open to dark cherry flavors with hints of mushroom. There are dark toasted herbs on the finish. The acids are pleasant.

Scheid Vineyards 2007 Estate Pinot Noir
Monterey, $30.00

1800 cases produced

(87)
Female: Floral notes highlights strawberries on the nose. Nice earth and springlike flavor accents to the red currant that runs throughout. Touches of dill, caraway, and rye toast hints of the finish.

Signorello Estate Las Amigas Vineyard Pinot Noir 2007 Las Amigas Vineyard Pinot Noir
Carneros, $50.00

104 cases produced

(87)
Female: Smoky and nutty aromas take the lead on the nose surrounding black raspberry. The palate shows plum and blackberry with hints of chocolate, black pepper and earth. Vibrant wine. Nicely balanced.

Silverwood 2007 Reserve Pinot Noir
Mornington Peninsula Australia, $50.00

68 cases produced

(87)
Female: A youthful wine. The nose of forest floor and dark black cherry repeats on the palate joined by coffee, clove, tarragon, and herbal elements. The tannins are still pretty aggressive. Lay this baby down and taste in 12-18 months. You will be rewarded.

Stephen & Walker 2008 Pinot Noir
Sonoma Coast, $46.00

250 cases produced

(87)
Female: Black cherry and hints of mint on the nose. Sweet black cherry flavors with nice acid on the finish.

Stephen's 2007 Stromsoe Vineyard Pinot Noir
San Luis Obispo County, $30.00

250 cases produced

(87)
Female: Raspberry jam on the nose delivering juicy raspberry fruit flavors followed by coffee and clove on the finish,

Van Ruiten Family Vineyards 2007 Steamboat Vineyard Pinot Noir
California, $29.99

950 cases produced

(87)
Female: Bright clear red. Vandied cherry nose carries over to the palate. Slightly sweet but would be fantastic with cherried duck or pork dishes. Nice spice profile.

Villa Mt Eden 2007 Grand Reserve Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley, $23.00

1120 cases produced

(87)
Female: Light ruby in color. The aromas are smoky surrounding and enhancing the cherry and rhubarb fruit. Fruit-forward palate with a nice spice profile. There are pronounced wood tones on the finish.

Willamette Valley Vineyards 2008 Whole Cluster Fermented Pinot Noir
Willamette Valley, $19.00

19270 cases produced

(87)
Female: Enticing floral perfume wafts from the glass - rose petals, violets and jasmine. Sweet strawberry flavors finishing with cola notes and a touch of acid.

Ziata 2008 Pinot Noir
Carneros, $42.00

200 cases produced

(87)
Female: Clear deep red, almost violet in color. The nose is dark and brooding with blue and black fruit aromas and flavors on entry. Blackberry and plum emerge mid-palate with nutmeg and baking spices accenting the finish.

Anaba Wines 2007 J McK Vineyard Pinot Noir
Carneros, $32.00

638 cases produced

(86)
Female: Mixed berry and jam aromas with hints of clove. The palate shows extracted sweet fruit flavors with a meaty aspect and a pronounced spice component. Balanced through the finish. A masculine wine.

Balletto Vineyards 2007 Burnside Road Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley, $34.00

300 cases produced

(86)
Female: Sweet dark cherry and plum aromas. The mouthfeel is full with vibrant fruit and floral tones. Oak dominates the finish now.

Bargetto 2007 Reserve Pinot Noir
Santa Cruz Mountains, $40.00

172 cases produced

(86)
Female: The layered nose shows warm brown spice, red cherry, black cherry, and a touch of lavender. Cherry on the palate. Nice acid. A pretty wine.

Belle Vallee 2006 Grand Cuvee Pinot Noir
Willamette Valley, $42.00

382 cases produced

(86)
Female: Aromas of mint and crushed herbs. Light red fruit flavors with earth notes apparent on the long finish. Will work well with food.

Belle Vallee Cellars 2007 Reserve Pinot Noir
Willamette Valley, $28.00

1088 cases produced

(86)
Female: Leather and forest floor aromas dominate the strawberry and red cherry fruit. Pretty on entry through mid but then the hefty tannins kick in. With time, on the second time through, the fruit began to show itself. Decant before drinking or better yet, lay this down for a year or more.

Bianchi Winery 2006 Signature Selection Garey Vineyard Pinot Noir
Santa Maria, $30.00

562 cases produced

(86)
Female: A well balanced wine. Vanilla and wild lavender aromas. Cherry, vanilla and tobacco on the palate. Tannins pop-up mid to late.

Big Table Farm 2008 Pinot Noir
Willamette Valley, $38.00

77 cases produced

(86)
Female: Cherry, cola and citrus in the nose. Cherry on opening turning to cranberry and cola mid. Lots of oak on the finish. This is just a baby. Needs time to integrate, but it will.

Bohemian Vineyard 2008 Estate Bohemian Vineyard Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley, $45.00

250 cases produced

(86)
Female: Barnyard at first sniff, then dark cherry, plum, cocoa and hint of licorice on the nose and palate.

Clary Ranch 2006 Estate Clary Ranch Pinot Noir
Sonoma Coast, $39.50

308 cases produced

(86)
Female: A delicate style - cherries and toast. Velvety texture with almost no tannins. Very pleasant. Well balanced though relatively simple.

Darcie Kent Vineyards 2007 West Pinnacles Vineyard Pinot Noir
Monterey, $30.00

3100 cases produced

(86)
Female: Wet leaves, forest floor and strawberries define the aromatics. Fresh strawberries with mouthwatering acid on the palate. The fruit is delicate. "I want to like this wine more..."

David Bruce Winery 2007 Pinot Noir
Sonoma Coast, $30.00

9376 cases produced

(86)
Female: Cherry, raspberry. black cherry, and oak aromas replicate on the palate. The oak is dominant now and what lingers.

Elkhorn Peak 2007 Elkhorn Peak Estate Vineyard Elkhorn Peak Estate Vineyard Pinot Noir
Napa Valley, $29.95

1850 cases produced

(86)
Female: Pine forest aromas dominate the dark fruit aromas and carry onto the palate. The dark fruit shows and shines mid-palate through the finish.

Ferris Wheel Estate 2006 Estate Ferris Wheel Pinot Noir
Umpqua Valley, $38.00

450 cases produced

(86)
Female: The color is deep red with brown notes. Beautiful aromatics of cherry and cedar. Nice weight, texture and balance. Spice tones dominate the raspberry and tart cranberry fruit but still a very pleasant wine.

Firesteed 2006 Willamette Valley Pinot Noir
Willamette Valley Oregon, $24.99

2146 cases produced

(86)
Female: Strawberry jam and warm fruit compote in the glass. Sour cherry in the mouth with a brambly quality on the finish.

Hagafen Cellars 2008 Estate Bottled Pinot Noir
Napa Valley, $32.00

1017 cases produced

(86)
Female: Smoky, spicy aromas surrounding cherries. Playful and promising on entry. Clove and cola enter mid.

Heart O' The Mountain 2007 Estate Blend Pinot Noir
Santa Cruz Mountains, $48.00

385 cases produced

(86)
Female: Blueberry and blackberry fruit on the nose with dusty cocoa highlights. Soft textured on the palate with tart red berry and dusty rose flavors. Balanced acidity. Enjoy with light cheeses and seafood.

Lion's Pride 2007 El Molino High School Vineyard Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley, $40.00

120 cases produced

(86)
Female: Cranberry compote aromas and flavors. Sweet on the palate.

Love Puppets 2006 Pinot Noir
Umpqua Valley, $30.00

800 cases produced

(86)
Female: Clear, light medium red in color. Smoky cherry aromas and flavors. A touch of chalkiness on the finish.

MacMurray Ranch 2007 Pinot Noir
Central Coast, $20.00

92000 cases produced

(86)
Female: Smoky black cherry nose with foresty backnotes. Black fruit on entry. Toasty oak elements complement the fruit.

Mahoney Vineyards 2006 Estate Mahoney Ranch Pinot Noir
Carneros, $28.00

300 cases produced

(86)
Female: The many layered aromatics show earth notes, mushrooms, meat enhancing the red cherry fruit. The palate is weighty - lots of oak framing the cherry, meat and spice flavors. Needs time, right now the oak dominates the fruit.

Phillips Hill 2008 Beeson Tree Pinot Noir
Anderson Valley, $42.00

400 cases produced

(86)
Female: Delicate aromas and flavors of light strawberry enhanced by mushroom, forest floor and spice elements.

PINOT 2006 Pinot Noir
Central Coast, $17.99

500 cases produced

(86)
Female: Dark but not opaque in the glass. The nose is a bit odd - inviting caramel with underlying pine and evergreen aromas that are reminiscent of crunching on leaves. The mouthfeel is rich but the tannins step heavily on the fruit.

Schug 2007 Heritage Reserve Pinot Noir
Carneros, $40.00

922 cases produced

(86)
Female: Mushrooms, forest floor, bright cherry and smoked meats on the complex nose. Bright cherry on entry turning to light sour cherry and cranberry mid through the finish.

Stephen's 2007 Estate Pinot Noir
York Mountain, $48.00

150 cases produced

(86)
Female: Narrow in the mouth at first but expands as it opens to sour cherry notes with dusty spices. Some nice acid here. An appealing wine.

Willamette Valley Vineyards 2007 Tualatin Estate Vineyard Tualatin Estate Pinot Noir
Willamette Valley, $40.00

340 cases produced

(86)
Female: Lovely nose. Pretty black cherry, rhubarb, leather and oak complements. Finishes smooth and easy.

= Will Provide Fond Memories

Casa Larga Vineyards 2007 Pinot Noir
Finger Lakes, $12.99

1000 cases produced

(85)
Female: Light strawberry aromas and flavors. Orange pekoe tea accents mid-palate. Light tannins with balanced acidity.

Claiborne & Churchill 2007 (Runestone) Barrel Select Pinot Noir
Edna Valley, $40.00

206 cases produced

(85)
Female: Dark chocolate nose leading to dark blackberry fruit on the palate. More Syrah-like than Pinot-like. Chewy tannins.

Erath 2006 Leland Vineyard Pinot Noir
Willamette Valley, $50.00

550 cases produced

(85)
Female: Vibrant. medium red-orange in color. Hints of cassis on the nose. Light cherry, cedar notes and citrus quality defines the palate. Strong acidity on the finish.

Erath 2008 Pinot Noir
Oregon, $19.00

75000 cases produced

(85)
Female: Bright cherry aromas with smoky overtones. Light-bodied sweet cherry and strawberry fruit turning slightly sour mid to late palate.

Fulcrum 2007 La Encantada Pinot Noir
Santa Rita Hills, $54.00

50 cases produced

(85)
Female: Black cherry with cola backnotes on the nose, replicating on the palate with heavy coffee influence. This is really a big wine - a nice wine - but not a typical Pinot.

Gloria Ferrer 2005 Jose S. Ferrer Pinot Noir
Carneros, $35.00

1000 cases produced

(85)
Female: Cooked strawberries with earthy backnotes. The fruit takes a backseat to the earth and oak notes on the palate.

Huber 2007 Estate Grown Pinot Noir
Santa Rita Hills, $38.00

450 cases produced

(85)
Female: Cherry, strawberry aromas with cola notes repeat on the palate. Light acidity through the finish.

Kyra 2008 Pinot Noir
Washington State, $22.00

350 cases produced

(85)
Female: Clear, medium brick red in the glass. Mixed red berry aromas with earthy backnotes. In the mouth, there is a spicy complement to the lovely cherry fruit flavors - cinnamon, nutmeg and hints of rose petals. A very pleasant wine but no "wow!" factor.

Phillips Hill 2008 Oppenlander Vineyard Pinot Noir
Mendocino, $45.00

600 cases produced

(85)
Female: Oak, vanilla, warm spices, red fruit and then more oak. The lovely black fruit on the palate is trounced by the oak. I'd like to try this again in 6-8 months.

Philo Ridge Vineyards 2006 Pinot Noir
Anderson Valley, $28.00

400 cases produced

(85)
Female: The eucalyptus aromas imbue the light red fruit flavors of cranberry and rhubarb with a hint of mint on the plate, clove entering the mix late. Nice wine but I would have liked more acid.

Pinot Evil Pinot Noir
Hungary, $19.99

(85)
Female: A lighter style of Pinot Noir. Cranberry, strawberry jam and touch of lime of the nose. Light red fruit in the mouth - pomegranate with green tea notes. Cleansing acid.

Rodney Strong Vineyards 2008 Russian River Valley, Estate Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley, $20.00

65000 cases produced

(85)
Female: A youngster. All of the pieces are there but they haven't melded as yet. Time should show this as a very nice wine. Barnyard and light red fruit aromas. Strawberry turning to sour cherries on the palate with quite a bit of espresso masking the fruit mid through late.

Surfrider 2008 Pinot Noir
Edna Valley, $27.00

548 cases produced

(85)
Female: Cherry jam on the nose, cherry on the palate. One dimensional but a crowd pleaser.

Willamette Valley Vineyards 2007 Elton Vineyard Elton Vineyard Pinot Noir
Willamette Valley, $45.00

410 cases produced

(85)
Female: Red fruit aromas. Strawberry flavors with lemon accents. Nice acid. Very pleasant.

Barefoot Cellars Pinot Noir
California, $6.99

387000 cases produced

(84)
Female: Cherry cream soda on the nose. Bright and sweet cherry flavors with light spice notes. Quite easy to drink.

Boekenoogen 2006 Estate, Boekenoogen Vineyard Boekenoogen Vineyard Pinot Noir
Santa Lucia Highlands, $45.00

375 cases produced

(84)
Female: Cola, berries and some tomatoes on the nose. Lush and thick on entry, the oak tannins are very there and dominate the palate.

Firesteed 2008 Pinot Noir
Oregon, $15.99

25114 cases produced

(84)
Female: Red sweet fruit aromas open to light strawberry flavors then to tart cranberry with lemon peel on the finish. Palate is very light.

Wild Hog Vineyard 2008 Estate Pinot Noir
True Sonoma Coast, $35.00

348 cases produced

(84)
Female: In the glass, the color is deep brick red and the aromas are reminiscent of smoked meats and bread baking. The palate is richly textured. The flavors are not consistent with the enticing nose showing a ribbon candy quality with sour cherry notes in the background.

Escarpment 2007 Pinot Noir
Martinborough, New Zealand, $36.99

3000 cases produced

(83)
Female: Eucalyptus, cherry and orange peel on the nose. Cherry in the mouth with lots of clove on the finish. The oak treatment is very intense.

Kenneth Volk Vineyards 2008 Santa Maria Cuvee Pinot Noir
Santa Maria Valley, $28.00

4754 cases produced

(83)
Female: Lots of oak here. Dark oak aromas open to black cherry flavors and then more oak. Maybe this is just too youthful and the oak will integrate. Not sure.

Pessagno 2007 Spring Grove Vineyards Pinot Noir
San Benito County, $27.00

143 cases produced

(83)
Female: Gravel riverbed in springtime on the nose. Juicy on entry then lighter red fruit and a lot of oak. Nice wine but not a graceful Pinot Noir.

Redwood Creek 2008 Pinot Noir
Vin d'Pays D'oc France, $7.99

300000 cases produced

(83)
Female: A nice sipper. Red fruit - cherries and raspberrries with cola notes mid to late.

Unionville Vineyards 2008 Single Vineyard Mountain Road Vineyard Pinot Noir
New Jersey, $35.95

54 cases produced

(83)
Female: Mint and strawberry aromas replicate on the palate. Sour cherries on the finish.

Clary Ranch 2007 Estate Clary Ranch Pinot Noir
Sonoma Coast, $36.00

458 cases produced

(82)
Female: Funky barnyard aromas dominate the nose. On the palate, sour cherry enhanced with orange rind a bit of clove. Sour fruit enters mid-palate and stays through the finish. Needs food - lamb or pork infused with clove and black pepper.

Kenneth Volk Vineyards 2006 Sierra Madre Vineyard Pinot Noir
Santa Maria Valley, $48.00

365 cases produced

(81)
Female: The nose shows smoky cherry with an orange zest dusting. Initially, the palate is soft with cherry and rose petals, hints of orange and citrus in the background but then there is a bitterness that emerges and defines the end palate.

The Four Graces 2007 Pinot Noir
Willamette Valley, $29.00

10000 cases produced

(81)
Female: Forest floor aromas and flavors dominate the light red fruit. Moderate tannins on the herbal finish.

Bella Sera 2008 Pinot Noir
PravPav, Italy, $6.99

100000 cases produced

(79)
Female: A nice red wine but not varietally correct for Pinot Noir.