The 2009 Swan Pinot Noir displays a medium ruby-purple color. The nose seems a little closed giving subtle notes of black cherry, pomegranate and red currant with some cedar and spice. Medium-full bodied with a solid structure of medium-level fine grained tannins and high acid, it has plenty of tight-knit fruit and a long finish. Consider drinking it 2011 to 2015. Importer: Maritime Wine Trading Collective, San Francisco, CA; tel. (415) 861-1139

A sturdy, slightly chunky wine, the 2008 Swan Pinot Noir features ample black cherry and plum fruit, and complementary coffee-tinged oak. With its dark color and assertive flavors, it’s certainly trying hard. Drink now–2015. ——J.C.(4/1/2011)—— 88