A fruit forward Pinot Noir, rich and buttery-sweet in raspberry, strawberry, cherry and ripe red plum jam, with an oaky veneer. Drink this pleasurable wine now for its freshness. ——S.H.(9/1/2011)—— 87

There’s enough unripe fruity flavor in this wine to detract from its pleasure. As dry, crisp and silky as it is, its cherry and cola flavors are marred by a sharp, green taste of menthol.——S.H.(2/1/2008)—— 84

Here’s a solid effort that shows great Russian River character in the silky, velvety texture and fine acids that frame the red cherry, cola and mocha fruit. The flavors are powerfully forward, yet the wine has both elegance and subtlety. It wouldn’t hurt to decant it for a few hours. ——S.H.(3/1/2006)—— 88