The lighter ruby-hued 2018 Pinot Noir Isabelle comes from a mix of sites and is all varietal that spent 24 months in 100% new French oak. A classic wine from this team, it offers lots of spiced red fruits, brambly herbs, flowers, and sandalwood in an ethereally textured, medium-bodied, incredibly elegant package. While it has bright acidity, it's beautifully balanced, has supple tannins, and a great finish. It's certainly not for those looking for blockbuster Pinot Noir, but it shines for its complexity, elegance, and nuances.

The late Jim Clendenen named this wine after his daughter, now a leader in her family winery, and he always made sure it was tip-top. This vintage hits the nose with pomegranate, rose-petal and light eucalyptus-leaf aromas, while the tense palate is brisk with roasted raspberry and pine-needle-tea flavors.

The 2018 Pinot Noir Isabelle is a powerful, deep wine with equally big tannins that need time to soften. There's terrific density here just waiting to emerge. Copious red fruit, leather, cedar, tobacco and dried herbs occasionally come forward. Readers should plan on cellaring the 2018 for at least a few years.