Scouting for the tastiest pinot noir

Wine writer Peg Melnik had a blind tasting this week of pinot noirs, with wines ranging from lush to vibrant. Our wine of the week winner — Roessler’s “Bluejay” 2007 Anderson Valley Pinot Noir — managed to be both.

Roessler’s “Bluejay” 2007 Anderson Valley ($32) ****

A cool climate pinot with great structure. But it also manages to be juicy, with a deep core of fruit. It has dense cherry flavors, with notes of mineral, spice and a hint of caramel. Intense.

Other tasty pinots in the mix
Husch, 2006 Anderson Valley Pinot Noir, $23. ****

A juicy pinot that’s a little earthy. Aromas and flavors of dried cherry, underbrush and spice. Pronounced acid. Long finish.

Arista, 2007 Longbow, Russian River Valley Pinot Noir, $48. ****

A showy, complex pinot. Toasty, with aromas and flavors of dried cherry, black cherry, cinnamon, vanilla and caramel. Lingering cherry finish.

MacPhail, 2006 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir, $45. ****

A pinot with deep flavors. Earthy and complex, with notes of dried cherry, cinnamon, mushroom and leather. Intense fruit. Great spice.