California Pinot Noir has had several recent outstanding years, but the 2019 growing season brought the grape to new heights in the Anderson Valley, Sonoma, Russian River Valley, Carneros, Santa Barbara and beyond. The grape has never achieved such high standards across the board in the Golden State, says Wine Spectator senior editor James Molesworth, who reviewed nearly 575 red wines—more than 60 percent of which received outstanding scores of 90 points or highter—for this tasting report. Many of the wines are approachable now and offer good value, while others are primed for cellaring over the next decade.
Get Molesworth's analysis and rating of the vintage, complete with producer highlights, plus scores and tasting notes for the top wines and values.
Member-Only Content
Premium SubscriptionJoin today and get immediate access to this article, and to our entire database of more than 400,000 wine ratings. It only takes moments—but it will help you drink better all year long.
Already a member? Sign In

Try Winespectator.com Free for 30 Days!
Full access to our database of more than 400,000 wine ratings
Early access to reviews on our editors' favorite just-rated wines
Wine and food pairing tool,
chefs' pairing recommendations
Best value wines and winery intel
Subscribe today