Over the years, pinot noir in California has had its ups and downs. But these days, you can find outstanding wines in just about every region of the state. Seek out as many of these wines as you can find:

Anderson Valley

2022 Goldeneye Gowan Creek ($90), estate vineyard part of the Duckhorn portfolio; focused, juicy dark berries licorice, toasty oak.

2023 Kendall Jackson Outland Ridge ($60), high eastern ridge vineyard; lavish dark berries, tea, mushrooms, allspice.

Petaluma Gap

2023 Kendall Jackson Cloud Landing ($55), located between San Pablo Bay and Pacific Ocean; concentrated dark cherries, forest floor, cinnamon, fine grained tannins.

Sonoma Coast

2021 Three Sticks Gap’s Crown Vineyard ($75), one of Three Sticks’ “Heritage Vineyards” in what now is known as the Petaluma Gap; packed with all sorts of juicy red and dark berry fruit, impressive richness, touch of earth, warm spices, balanced with supple tannins.

Russian River Valley

2021 Ram’s Gate Bush Crispo Vineyard ($80), vineyard located in the acclaimed Olivet Lane district; dense red fruit, tea, spicy, robust impact but elegant structure.

2020 B. Wise Silver Eagle Vineyard ($75), limited release from a vineyard located on a plateau separating the Russian River Valley from the Sonoma Coast; raspberry, plum, wet earth, white pepper, toasty oak, smooth texture.

2021 Arista ($70) blends several cool climate vineyards from across the appellation; intense, vibrant dark fruit, anise, spice, firm texture.

2022 Bricoleur ($65), inviting red fruits, hibiscus, tobacco, exotic spice, bright finish.

Carneros

2022 Bouchaine Estate ($50), the oldest continuously family-owned property in Napa’s Carneros; red fruit, herbal shades, soft palate.

2023 Cuvaison Mariafeld ($80), unique Swiss clone produces vibrant, deep, dynamic red fruits, silky texture.

Santa Lucia Highlands

2022 Rombauer Vineyards ($55), blend of eight vineyards; rich red cherry, plum, tea, light creamy note.

Arroyo Grande Valley

2023 Talley Vineyards Rosemary’s Vineyard ($90), Talley estate vineyard in view of Pacific Ocean; juicy, ripe red and dark fruit, herbs, savory spice, elegant, chalky texture. 

Santa Rita Hills

2021 Alma Rosa Barrel Select ($90), special selection from the El Jabali estate vineyard; nicely concentrated, bright red fruit, luscious acidity, earthy notes, well-structured, chalky tannins.

2023 The Hilt Estate ($50), blend of rich, juicy fruit from Bentrock estate and opulent, intense fruit from Radian estate; lively dark fruit, savory, fine structure.