Murphy-Goode Winery, California (United States) Pinot Noir 2016

 Among the best wines I’ve tasted from Murphy-Goode in the past decade — even though it is “just” an entry-level release — this shows exceptional purity of fruit and very fine structural balance.  There’s virtually no discernible oak, just juicy red fruit notes recalling strawberries and raspberries with a little spice around the edges.  Refreshing but quite flavorful, this won’t overwhelm even delicate fish preparations, but can hold its own very nicely with a roast chicken.