"The Pinot Noir grape is temperamental -- that's why it's called the 'Heartbreak Grape.' Its inherent beauty and delicate nature are elusive. Winemakers will tell you that it's immensely satisfying when they manage to coax a well-balanced and elegant wine from this difficult grape... Pinot Noir is considered one of the noblest varietals in the world..." - Sao Anash, The Wine Advocate

American Pinot Noir has found its place in California and Oregon. The Willamatte Valley, with its rolling hills and relatively cool climate, boasts a history of successful vintages. In California, the hilly, foggy landscapes of the North Coast -- Mendocino, Sonoma Coast, Russian River -- continue to receive critical acclaim.

Pinots from both states tend to age gracefully over 5-10 years, mellowing into mature earthy, musty and floral notes. For enthusiasts of more nuanced, subtle Pinot characteristics, the list below provides many impressive examples to enjoy now. Bottles of more recent releases are perfect cellar candidates; the fruit integrate into a silky, complex, confusing, yet mind blowing wine that only Pinot Noir can be.

• 2000 Ken Wright - Pinot Noir Freedom Hill Vineyard (91 WA) $46.95 - "Assorted black fruits are found in the aromatics of the medium to dark ruby-colored 2000 Pinot Noir Freedom Hill Vineyard. Reflecting the vineyard's terroir, this is a muscular, structured, well-built wine with loads of flesh, a dense, plush personality, and a long, fruit-filled finish. This powerful, masculine offering will require cellaring." - Pierre Rovani, The Wine Advocate Issue 143

• 2002 Dehlinger Pinot Noir Goldridge Vineyard (90 WA) $42.95 - "The 2002 Pinot Noir Goldridge (named after the dominant soils of Dehlinger's vineyards) reveals a gorgeous red apple skin, sweet cherry, strawberry nose with some spice box, cinnamon, and earth in the background. It is well-made, medium-bodied, displaying good texture, nice, attractive depth, and loads of fruit. Very seductive, this wine should drink well for 4-5 years." - Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate Issue 157

• 2002 Beaux Freres - Pinot Noir The Upper Terrace (91 WS) $79.95 - "Lithe, supple style has a meaty edge to the dead-ripe blackberry, strawberry and plum flavors, all beautifully balanced with fine-grained tannins as it lasts on the finish." - Harvey Steiman, Wine Spectator