Rodney Strong Pinot Noir Reserve Russian River Valley 2009

Thin in flavors, tart in acids, this wine struggles to find its fruit, which barely breaks into cola and red cherries. Itrsquo;s dry, with sandpapery tannins.

Therersquo;s a dividing line between Pinots that are good and simple and those that are fabulously complex. This delightfully drinkable wine is right in the middle. As easy as it is, it possesses layers of fruit and minerals, and is thoroughly dry and balanced.

This Pinot from Rodney Strong is lithe and lively! Strong was a pioneer, one of the first to plant Pinot Noir in the Russian River Valley back in 1968. Now his estate vineyards produce superb Pinot every year. This estate 2009 is a prime example of the quality you can achieve when you control your own vineyards. Aged 6 months in French oak barrels, the Wine Enthusiast scored this wine 91 points saying "Made in a leaner, drier, lighter style than most Russian River Pinots, but the elegance and complexity are very attractive. Shows a white pepper and herbal note to the sour cherry candy fruit, and is balanced with perfect acidity. A beautiful wine to accompany, not overwhelm, fine foods." At under $20 by the case it an astounding value.

Strikes the perfect balance between a Pinot that needs aging and one thatrsquo;s perfectly drinkable now. Complex layers of cherries, blackberries, coffee, cola and smoky oak; shows the richness and vivacity of the best of RRV. Best now and for a couple of years.

Therersquo;s aromas of roasted coffee, sage, herb, mineral and baked cherry pie in this firm, tannic, full-bodied red, but the flavors push through, giving this a measure of complexity. Drink now through 2014.

Lovely, a Pinot that doesnrsquo;t slap you silly with extract, just flatters with sensuous pleasure. Itrsquo;s a light-colored wine, with a delicately silky texture framing cherry, cranberry, cola and tea flavors, and is quite dry. Easy to find, with 12,000 cases produced.

Fresh and fragrant, with pretty floral and cherry aromas. Well balanced, with plush tannins, strawberry flavors, moderate acidity and a medium finish rounded out with pretty herb notes.