The 2009 Pinot Noir Reserve shows lovely delineation and focus in its dark cherries, plums, spices and violets. This juicy, forward Pinot is best enjoyed while the fruit retains its exuberance. Only the slightly drying tannins on the finish keep the score from going higher. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2016. Rodney Strong has retained the services of David Ramey to consult on their Reserve program, and it shows in the quality of these wines.Tel. (800) 678-4763

Made in an immediately appealing style, this Pinot is soft and lush and vast in fruit and oak richness. It floods the palate with cherry and raspberry pie filling, vanilla, cinnamon and sandalwood flavors, and the texture is silky and elegant.——S.H.(11/1/2010)—— 91