A select group of winemakers can be credited with revolutionizing modern day winemaking in California. They are the innovators who, some 20 years ago, brought Old World traditions back to a New World that had thrown in its lot with university scientists to make squeaky clean wines largely devoid of character. The goal of these new wave winemakers was to put terroir back into the bottle and create wines of unique distinction. David Ramey is widely acknowledged to be among the wine pioneers whose efforts helped raise the bar for all American winemakers and brought California to the forefront of the international wine world. David’s groundbreaking work with indigenous yeasts and malolactic and barrel fermentation yielded a new California style that was richer, more lush and silky smooth than previously known. As a result, he created a benchmark style now emulated by many.

STEVE TANZAR RATING: 91

STEVE TANZAR REVIEW: Smoke-accented aromas of pear skin, honey and iodine, with a floral nuance picking up strength with air. Sappy and broad, with deep, stony orchard fruit flavors and notes of chamomile and saffron. Offers an intriguing mix of depth and vibrancy and finishes with solid grip and spicy persistence. Give this a little air if you insist on drinking it now.

WINE SPECTATOR RATING: 91

WINE SPECTATOR REVIEW: Both fragrant and delicate, this offers complex floral, grapefruit, citrus, light oak and honeydew melon flavors perked up by lively acidity, which imparts a mouthwatering finish. Drink now through 2016.