Garnet long has been one of California’s greatest entry-level Pinot Noirs, and it still is. Maybe the best. The ’09 reflects the balanced vintage. It’s a dry, silky, light-bodied wine, with pretty raspberry and cola flavors. ——S.H.(12/1/2010)—— 89

Saintsbury’s Garnet bottling established the tradition in California of a lighter-style, but no less elegant, Pinot Noir that retails at a decent price. The ’08 doesn’t disappoint. It’s silky and crisp, with ripe flavors of cherries, raspberries, cola and sandalwood. Now–2011. ——S.H.(12/1/2009)—— 89