The outstanding 2009 Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast exhibits abundant notes of wild berry mountain fruit, loamy earth, herbs and sweet black cherries. Deep and elegant with a broad, savory mouthfeel as well as impressive purity, it should drink well for 6-8 years. This is the well-run wine operation of long-time veteran winemaker, sidekick and assistant winemaker at Turley Cellars in Calistoga, Ehren Jordan, who produces cool climate reds and whites that have benefitted from the cooler than normal year of 2009. These are minimally oaked efforts and, given Jordan’s love of France, readers should not be surprised to find that they possess Francophile-like personalities. However, the rich, pure, ripe fruit of California has not been compromised. Failla’s Pinot Noir program is growing by leaps and bounds and currently eight separate Pinots are offered. Jordan intends to keep the new oak to 33% or less and, if possible, prefers to use 100% whole clusters (meaning 100% stems) and bottle early to preserve the freshness and character of Pinot Noir. These wines were all tasted post-bottling, which may have suppressed their aromatics somewhat, so I suspect my scores are on the conservative side as much of the charm and appeal of Pinot Noir is its endearing aromatics. Readers looking for a Northern Rhone look-alike should check out Failla’s two Syrahs. Tel. (707) 963-0530; Fax (707) 963-0570

Notably and pleasantly earthy, with loamy wet soil, mineral, dried berry and herb notes, a mix of sweet, savory wild berry fruit and spicy underbrush. Complex and lingering. Drink now through 2018. 800 cases made.??–JL??Region: California / Sonoma / Sonoma Coast Select to Add

With its spicy, wild berry and pine notes, this Pinot bears Failla’s distinctive mark. It’s a dry, complex and exotic young wine, brisk in acidity and wonderfully silky and elegant in the mouth. If you’re into flavor identifiers, they’re wild raspberries and cherries. Good price for a fine Failla wine. Best now and for the next six years. ——S.H.(6/1/2011)—— 92