The 2008 Alpha Pinot Noir,medium ruby red in color, it displays a fragrant nose of cedar, cherry blossom, spice box, cranberry, and black raspberry. Medium-bodied and elegant on the palate, this spicy, savory Pinot has good balance and a lengthy finish. It will provide pleasure over the next 4-5 years. Importer: TGIC Imports, Woodland Hills, CA, tel (818)225-5100

Mouthfilling, with plum, blackberry and black cherry fruit kept lively by enticing spice, anise and black tea notes. The long, grippy finish has solid drive. Drink now through 2011. 2,500 cases imported. -JM

Angular on the nose, with earthy, semisharp red fruit aromas that are undoubtedly Pinot-related. The palate offers good depth and only slightly jagged acids, and the flavors of raspberry are snappy and just a bit herbal. Dry, toasty and endearing on the finish.——M.S.(7/1/2010)—— 88