EMERITUS, RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY PINOT NOIR

The home ranch of Emeritus Vineyards lies along Sonoma County's Gold Ridge-a ten-mile-long, low ridge running from Sebastopol to Forestville, in the heart of the Russian River Valley. Rolling hills slope to the southwest giving the vines optimum sun exposure, allowing the grapes to ripen with vibrant flavors, sensuous velvety texture, and seductive aromas. This Gold Ridge is America's Cote d'Or, home to many of the emerging top-flight Pinot Noirs produced in California.

"Sleek, lean and vibrant. Spice, floral and wild berry aromas fold over to the palate, where they're intense, focused and delicate, finishing with a burst of wild berry flavors. Drink now through 2011."

-James Laube