A glorious full-bodied, velvety Pinot Noir from the Russian River Valley that tastes of Santa Rosa plums, sweet spices and a smidgen of earth. Just smell the bouquet: It tells you volumes about the wine. The 2012 is a big Pinot, 14.4 percent alcohol, but it’s so well-integrated into the wine, it doesn’t feel out of balance. A beautiful texture and all that bright, juicy fruit only add to its appeal.

Break out a bottle for a roast duck or pan-seared duck breasts, a wintry braised meat dish, or a cheese platter.

Region: Sonoma County, Russian River Valley

Price: From $50 to $55.

Style: Rich and full-bodied.

What it goes with: roast duck, seared duck breasts, braised meats, cheese.

Where to find it: at most fine wine retailers.

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Angie McBrayer, ex-wife of James Aaron McBrayer, leans her head on her son Sam McBrayer as she and her three children and two grandchildren (from left) Jackson McBrayer, 3, Piper Jae McBrayer, 7, Katy Isaza, and Jordan McBrayer, visit the grave of James McBrayer, Thursday, November 20, 2025, in Tifton. He died after being restrained by Tift County sheriff's deputies on April 24, 2019. His ex-wife witnessed the arrest and said she thought the deputies were being rough but did not imagine that McBrayer would die. (Hyosub Shin/AJC)

Credit: HYOSUB SHIN / AJC