(92-94 points) A finished tank sample, the 2017 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley is made using about 25% whole-cluster fermentation—the first time, David Ramey says, that they've experimented with whole cluster. Pale to medium ruby-purple in color, it has a gregarious, youthful nose with tangerine peel, soft baking spices, forest floor and a wicked vein of floral nuance with warm red and black fruits at the core. The palate gives good concentration of spicy fruit, with grainy tannins and juicy acidity, finishing long and spicy. 2,400 cases are expected to be made and released in September 2019.

As to the reds, the 2017 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley comes from a handful of sites and spent 14 months in just under 40% new French oak. Its translucent ruby color is followed by a complex, earthy effort that offers mulled strawberry and cherry fruit, notes of dried herbs, forest floor, and saddle leather, medium-bodied richness, and a great texture. This Burgundy lover’s Pinot Noir shines for its complexity and elegance more than power and richness.

This wine is sourced from a selection of different vineyards, including Bucher along Westside Road. Earthy funk underlies high-toned red cherry, rhubarb and strawberry, threading the needle between richness and crispness. A salty savory finish tops things off. VIRGINIE BOONE

Delicate, with finely textured dried cherry and raspberry tart flavors, supported by fresh acidity. Shows cherry confit notes midpalate, revealing plenty of spice and smoke hints on the finish. Drink now through 2022. 2,559 cases made. — KM