Two reds that I really enjoyed, and one disappointment.
2010 Domaine de la Pinte Arbois Poulsard “de l’Ami Karl”
A new producer to me, which has been biodynamic since 2009. Half of their vineyards are planted to Savagnin; the other half contains the usual traditional Jura varieties, with 7 ha of Poulsard.
Nose features pronounced aromas of white pepper and smoke, with some red fruit poking through. Light-bodied, well balanced, with good underlying acidity; smoother than many Poulsards. Full of cranberries and sour cherries on the palate, along with the anticipated earthiness and herbal notes, plus hints of tobacco and coffee. Shows a note of fennel on the finish. Very good/excellent; really nice summer red (11% alcohol).
2009 Domaine Robert Sérol Côte Roannaise Cuvée Troisgros
Made from Gamay Saint Romain, also known as Gamay Saint Galmier; the Vitis International Variety Catalogue considers this to be a separate variety from the standard Gamay Noir à Jus Blanc, although others consider it to just be a localized clone. (I've had one other Côte Roannaise before, and wasn't aware of this.) This particular wine is a selection by the proprietors and sommeliers of the Michelin 3 star restaurant, Troisgros, in Roanne; coming from vines that range from 50 to 80 years old.
Nose of crushed mixed berries, with hints of baking spices, earth, and minerals. Medium-bodied, with silky tannins; nicely balanced/poised, with moderate acidity. Displays notes of cherries, mixed berries, rose petals, ground pepper, and cloves. Excellent – I’d put this on par with a top Fleurie or Chiroubles. An absolute bargain for $12 (the $20 regular price would have been great as well).
2008 L'Angevin Pinot Noir Russian River Valley
Spices, coconut, and baking chocolate on the nose. Full-bodied, big, slightly sweet, defiantly Californian in character, and unfortunately, a bit too ripe/hot – not that California Pinot has to be by any means. Initially, this gives the impression of being smooth and supple, but a bit of hard tannin eventually crops up. Shows pronounced flavors of black and Bing cherries, along with vanilla, dark chocolate, licorice, and baking spices. I have had better from the RRV.