A strong effort, the 2008 Pinot Noir Occidental Ridge is one of the finest Pinots Jordan has yet produced. Abundant aromas of black raspberries, cherries, plums, wild strawberries, and forest floor are followed by a dense ruby-hued, medium to full-bodied, long, rich red wine that should age effortlessly for a decade or more. Ehren Jordan’s yields in 2008 were one-half of normal, primarily due to the frost and poor flowering. Consequently, the level of concentration in some of his wines is slightly higher than normal. Jordan is a Francophile, and his impressive resume includes being one of the masterminds behind the Turley Zinfandels. He is all about natural winemaking, securing top terroirs, and putting into the bottle the essence of what the grape and the site have produced. Tel. (707) 942-4699; Fax (707) 942-5142

A strong, powerful Pinot that’s nowhere ready to drink. That’s despite massive blackberry, cherry, cola, red currant, licorice and sandalwood flavors that dazzle the palate. The tannins are potent, the acidity is tart and the finish is bone dry. Obviously needs time in the bottle. Try after 2013.——S.H.(12/31/2010)—— 92