From Anderson Valley, the 2006 Pinot Noir Velvet Sisters is one of the vintage’s stronger efforts. Blueberry, raspberry, and spring flower characteristics emerge from this medium-bodied, undeniably elegant, mid-weight Pinot. All of these 2006s should be consumed over the next 2-3 years as I do not believe they will age well. One of my favorite wineries in the Jess Jackson portfolio, it looks like Hartford Family Winery’s 2007s are going to be fabulous, but the 2006 Pinot Noirs reveal some of the shortcomings for this varietal in that vintage. As for the Chardonnays, the two 2007s I tasted are both gorgeous wines. As I have stated before, 2006 was a challenging vintage for Pinot Noir, and that’s reflected in these cuvees. All are certainly good, and one is outstanding, but the botrytis as well as the unusual growing season made it difficult for a fragile varietal like Pinot Noir. Available through Vin Lux Fine Wines, tel.(866) 462-4641; Fax (866) 853-1707; www.vinluxfinewines.com