In Wine Advocate Issue 231, editor-in-chief Lisa Perrotti-Brown finishes up her three-part Sonoma series. Of the area, Perrotti-Brown notes that “there is an incredible array of diverse soils, topography and meso/microclimates, even for such a large area—all features that automatically open the door to a lot of grape varieties and styles.”

The tasting notes she gathered during her final installment were no exception: “This set of Sonoma notes includes some absolute gems, featuring some familiar favorites and exciting newcomers.” 

(Check out the full report, and read Part One and Part Two of the series.) 

Here, we’ve rounded up some truly superb Pinot Noirs—rated 90 points and higher—from Part Three that are ideal for those late summer nights:

2014 Pellegrini Wine Company • Pinot Noir Olivet Lane Vineyard
“Medium-bodied, the palate delivers soft, fine-grained tannins and wonderful freshness…”

2014 EnRoute • Pinot Noir Amber Ridge Vineyard
“The 2014 Pinot Noir Amber Ridge Vineyard is scented of red currants, cranberries and pomegranate with hints of fragrant earth, lavender and Provence herbs.”

2015 Dutton Estate Winery • Pinot Noir La Familia
“Medium-bodied and elegantly crafted with very fine-grained, ripe tannins and loads of energy…”

2013 Marimar Estate • Pinot Noir Cristina Don Miguel Vineyard
“…has a nose of potpourri, kirsch, sautéed herbs and game.”

2015 Enkidu Wine • Pinot Noir Tina Marie
“Medium-bodied, soft, velvety and with plenty of juicy fruit, it has a good long finish with some earthiness coming through.”

2014 MacRostie Winery & Vineyards • Pinot Noir Thale's Vineyard
“…scented of red cherries, raspberry preserves, dried herbs and fertile earth.”

Want to learn more about wine? Follow Robert Parker's Wine Advocate on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, or go to robertparker.com.