As for the 2008 Pinot Noir, a lovely, earthy nose here, with good definition, notes of black plum and raspberry coulis. The palate has fine tannins, a little foursquare but with clean crisp dark berried fruit on the grippy finish. Fine and classy, just lacking some persistency though.No known American importer.

Mud House winemaker Nadine Worley has turned out an authoritatively flavored 2008 Pinot Noir, loaded with tart cherries and a hint of citrus zest. While this medium-bodied Pinot Noir could use greater doses of delicacy and nuance, it’s still a flavorful mouthful of wine. Drink it over the next few years. ——J.C.(4/1/2011)—— 88