Schug, Sonoma Coast (Sonoma County, California) Pinot Noir 2008

 At the recently concluded San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition, my panel awarded this wine a Gold Medal and selected it as the “Best of Class” in the $20 to $25 Pinot Noir category.  (The 2007 also won a Gold Medal at the same competition last year).  It has a wonderful balance of sweet, cherry-like fruit elements and savory notes.  With refinement that is often lacking in California Pinot Noir, it’s rich without being overdone.   It’s more enjoyable than many at twice its price.  Don’t miss it.