Russian River Valley wines are found more often on restaurant wine lists than on retail shelves, primarily because of limited production.
—
Inman Family Pinot Noir 2008
Three stars
Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, Calif., $30
This wine features delicious black-fruit flavors, a hint of spice and the suggestion of a hidden story line waiting to emerge with the next sip. I certainly wanted to keep on drinking it. Also look for the Olivet Grange and Thorn Ridge bottlings.
Broadbent Selections/Country Vintner.
—
Inman Family Chardonnay 2011
Two and a half stars
Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, Calif., $32
A lovely chardonnay; it has flavors of lemon curd and peach, plus enough acidity to give it structure and a long, complex finish. I don’t understand why more stores don’t carry this gem.
Broadbent Selections/Country Vintner.
—
Martin Ray Chardonnay 2012
GREAT VALUE Two and a half stars
Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, Calif., $19
Lively and finely balanced, this citrusy and toasty chard is a crowd-pleaser at a reasonable price.
Country Vintner.
—
Hartford Court Pinot Noir 2011
Two and a half stars
Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, Calif., $40
This wine, from the Green Valley subsection of the Russian River Valley appellation, showcases the dark-fruit character of pinot noir from this region, with Bing cherry and black berry flavors.
Monument/Republic National.
—
Sonoma-Cutrer Chardonnay 2011 Russian River Ranches
Two stars
Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, Calif., $22
Sonoma-Cutrer has had success in marketing its chardonnays for restaurants. This single-vineyard wine from its estate vineyard in the Russian River Valley is an example.
Washington Wholesale/Reliable Churchill.
—
Three stars Exceptional, two stars Excellent, one star Very Good
Availability information is based on distributor records. Check Winesearcher.com to verify availability, or ask a favorite wine store to order through a distributor.
