Alysian, Russian River Valley (California) Pinot Noir 2010

Unlike Alysian’s more expensive offerings, the Russian River Selection Pinot is not a single-vineyard wine. Instead, it is a blend of various RRV vineyard sources that come together for what passes for Alysian’s entry-level wine. That would be entry level in price only. This vintage of the "Selection" Pinot exhibits the firm structure that is the trademark of winemaker Gary Farrell, who always has his eye on the tension between structure and flavor (or ripeness, some might say). This is a delicious Pinot that shows enticing red fruits and spice, with subtle aromas of cola and forest floor. The body might be described as medium to light in weight, but this Pinot is fully flavored and satisfying.