Readers looking for a textbook Russian River Pinot should check out the 2018 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley. Offering up a medium ruby hue as well as lots of spiced red fruits, cola, leafy herbs, and flowery incense, it's medium to full-bodied and has a wonderful sense of balance and purity, ripe tannins, and a great finish. It's a big wine (over 15% alcohol), yet it still comes across as light and graceful.

Earthy rhubarb, black tea and cola combine effortlessly with a dense richness of wild strawberry in this full-bodied, well-structured and memorable wine. Bright acidity keeps it fresh and crisp in the glass as a long finish of additional baking spice lingers. VIRGINIE BOONE

This has mossy, earthy aromas, alongside red plum, ripe blueberry and dried citrus zest. Hints of ash and dark chocolate. It’s medium-to full-bodied with fine, tight tannins and bright acidity. Flavorful and precise finish. Drink or hold.

Medium ruby in color, the 2018 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley is scented of red cherries and cranberries with notes of orange peel, tobacco leaf and underbrush. The light-bodied palate has great intensity and nuance, grainy and fresh with a long finish. 400 cases produced.