2014 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

The last of the appellation releases, the 2014 Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast was brought up in 55% new French oak, which is slightly more than the 2013. Deep, rich and earthy, with notes of bouquet garni, smoked earth, licorice and dark fruits, it has full-bodied richness, a big mid-palate and is packed with gorgeous amounts of fruit. It's a big, rich wine from this cool climate appellation, yet I suspect it will show more classic Sonoma Coast characteristics with a year or two in bottle. It's a beautiful wine.

Coming from steep, rocky soils on the Sonoma Coast, the 2014 Pinot Noir Gap's Crown Vineyard was brought up in 25% new French oak, 16% concrete and the rest in old barrels. All of the Pinot Noirs here go into barrel dry and see malolactic fermentation in barrel. This fabulous beauty gives up notes of black cherries, spring flowers, violets and spice in a medium-bodied, ultra-pure, seamless and elegant package that will benefit from short term cellaring and then cruise for a decade on its impeccable balance. (JD) 94+

Kosta Browne's 2014 Pinot Noir Koplen Vineyard offers up a super-classic expression of the Russian River. Succulent red cherry, plum, spice, hard candy and new leather all flesh out as this effortless, engaging Pinot shows off its welcoming personality. (AG)