For fans of bigger and more powerful Pinot Noir, the 2010 Bernardus Pinot Noir from their Sierra Mar Vineyard in the Santa Lucia Highlands hits all the right notes. Visually opaque with a deep brick red hue, this wine is a quintessential Autumn-sipper. On the nose, rich and dark red and purple fruit, such as plum and rhubarb, mingle with smoky wet moss. On the palate, rich and ripe dark purple fruit prevail, with a hint of jasmine and sweet persimmon. While the tannins are pleasingly silky and smooth, this should hold nicely for the next 3-5 years.