Another impressive effort is the 2009 Pinot Noir Russian River. Its distinctive earthiness is accompanied by notions of root vegetables, spice box, pomegranate, black raspberry and cherry fruit. Medium-bodied with silky tannins, good acidity and fresh, lively fruit, it should drink well for 4-5 years. Tel. (888) 668-7729

The other Pinots include the classic, allspice, black cherry, cola-scented 2008 Pinot Noir Russian River. Prices are very fair, and these Pinots should be drunk in their first 3-4 years of life. This Gallo-owned operation does a remarkable job with Pinot Gris, making one of the finest as well as reasonably priced in California.Tel. (888) 668-7729

Give this fresh young Pinot a year to mellow. Right now, it’s jammy in raspberries and cherries, with a citric sharpness. Needs brief time to knit together and become seamless. ——S.H.(12/1/2010)—— 87

The dark ruby 2007 Pinot Noir Russian River has cherry, earth, cola, and spice notes as well as flavors, all presented in a supple, medium-bodied format..Tel. (888) 668-7729