The 2007 Pinot Noir Bucher Vineyard offers up aromas of wild strawberries and cherries intermixed with a steely, crushed rock-like flintiness. With lots of minerality, medium to full body, beautiful fruit purity, and an elegant, layered mouthfeel, it is not a big Pinot, but a stylish example that should be at its best in several years, and age nicely for 10-12. The single vineyard Pinot Noirs are made from a wide range of California vineyards, primarily in the north, with Russian River and Sonoma Coast dominating, but there is also an Anderson Valley site (Ferrington), San Benito site (Vista Verde), and Yorkville Highlands (Weir). The Chardonnays are nearly as powerful as the Zinfandels in terms of alcohol strength, ranging from 14.5% to 14.8%.Tel. (707) 433-6425; Fax (707) 433-6546

Forward and delicious, a vibrant wine that’s fully drinkable now for the richness of fruit. Shows ripe waves of black and red cherries, raspberries, cola, chocolate and creme brulee, leading to a long, sweetly spicy finish. Seems destined to be an early drinker, so best now and through 2012.——S.H.(2/1/2010)—— 95