The most seductive at present is the 2007 Pinot Noir Julia’s Vineyard, a dense ruby/purple-tinged effort offering sweet aromas of kirsch, black fruits, and forest floor. It displays a broad, full-bodied, velvety mouthfeel as well as good underlying acidity that provides uplift and vibrancy, but the overall impression is one of a silk glove. Drink this beauty over the next 4-5 years. Tel. (805) 937-4251; Fax (805) 937-0415

Dark, full-bodied and rich. Defines a heavier, riper style that’s almost like Grenache. Floods the mouth with black cherry pie filling, plum sauce, beef jerky, pepper, vanilla and sandalwood flavors. Good acidity provides vitality and zest. Could develop further complexities beyond 2009.——S.H.(10/1/2009)—— 92