There is no such thing as a perfect vintage. But 2009 comes close to nirvana for California Pinot Noir. Ideal weather and a modest-sized crop led to even-ripening and the tastiest group of young Pinots I’ve yet sampled. Without a doubt, 2009 ranks alongside 2007 as the best vintage this decade. But in terms of the number of great wines, ’09 is head and shoulders above any other vintage in California Pinot Noir history. -James Laube