Husch, Anderson Valley, Pinot Noir 2006 Cherries and earth in a light-bodied package – a little rustic and a touch bitter. Aged for 9 months in French oak. P&B in Philo 13.9% $22.99 at Traverso’s Husch
Navarro, Anderson Valley Mendocino, Methode a l’Ancienne, Pinot Noir 2006 There is sweet liquer-like fruit and that sense of cherry cola. Easy to drink, soft and framed with acidity. This was the class favorite of the flight. P&B in Philo 13.7% $29 at the winery Navarro
Domaine Henri Gouges, Nuits-St-Georges 1er Cru, Les Pruliers 2005
The wine is quite tight, just a baby, packed with fruit, some green herbs and earthy notes with a tannic exterior – very long. This is showing a bit more forward and accessible than the ’05 Clos des Porrets that is also available locally yet you should still lay this one down in the cellar. Mis au domaine in Nuits-Saint-Georges 13% $71.99 at Bottle Barn Gouges
RN Estate, Sta. Rita Hills, Fiddlestix Vineyard, Pinot Noir 2005 There’s a combination of stewed fruit, raisins and sweet oak – very smooth and a little warm. P&B in Paso Robles 14.9% $45 at the winery RN Estate