The Russian River Reserve heads up these latest releases from one of California's top Pinot Noir producers, and, given the vintage challenges, this is a superb group indeed. Here, volume, depth and richness are all combined with clearly stated red cherry fruit with a hint of berryish sweetness carried brilliantly by the solid, slightly open, supple and lively mouthfeel. Its flavors hold on and on at the end, and if one can spot a bit of late-arriving heat, it will be ameliorated in service with rich foods like duck breasts in a savory wine sauce or a juicy rib roast.

Deep ruby color; deep, dense forest floor and tea aromas with some cherry notes; complex, rich cherry flavors with tea, herbal and forest floor notes; some tannin and oak; good structure and balance; long finish. Deep, dense Pinot that is also extremely well balanced and layered. Needs lots of air right now and will reward your patience in the cellar.

The 2011 Pinot Noir Reserve boasts the most saturated dark plum/ruby color of these Pinots, along with copious aromas of forest floor, red and black currants and earth. This well-endowed, rich, medium to full-bodied Pinot offers terrific purity, abundant texture and richness, a broad, Cote de Nuits-like, savory, floral and foresty character, and an exceptionally long finish. Enjoy this profound Russian River Pinot over the next 7-10 years. - Robert Parker

There’s pronounced power in this Pinot, a selection of 14 barrels given 18 months in 71% new French oak. Complex, it achieves a sense of balance that will come into greater focus over time. At the moment, it offers kirsch notes and sizzling acidity around a core of peppery allspice and toasty brioche, but it will only continue to develop and evolve with age.

A rich, full-blown expression of ripe dark berry flavors, with raspberry, boysenberry, black licorice and subtle floral and spice notes. The texture is both supple and firm, leading to a lingering finish. Drink now through 2023. – JL