The color is translucent garnet in the center, with pink edges. The nose shows cherries, stems, dark earth and a touch of brown sugar. The palate, too, is earthy and herbaceous, but the fruit is more tart, with cranberry, redcurrant, and tiny wild strawberries. Hints of brown sugar linger with tart fruit and earth. This is very well made, true to varietal, with 21% new French oak supporting, rather than controlling, what the vines had to offer. Drink with duck confit. Highly Recommended. 91 points. DBH
WHO: Davis Bynum
WHAT: Pinot Noir
DESIGNATION: Jane’s Vineyard
WHERE: Russian River Valley
HOW MUCH: $35 (media sample)