(Full disclosure: these wines were received as press samples.)
2010 Robert Mondavi Winery Pinot Noir Napa Valley $27
A sleeveless cardigan of a Pinot for the change of seasons. Solid core, smokey notes over top a mid layer that vibrates at low frequency between high-strung aromatic and warm, mulled spice. Immanently drinkable and thought-provoking, though fundamentally sound. Surprisingly terrific given the vintage.
2010 Robert Mondavi Winery Chardonnay Napa Valley $20
Platinum blonde in the glass. Inviting, toasted oak nose, and a full body open the door to a wine that is somehow rich and at once restrained. The fruit takes a back seat to the vanilla streak running top to bottom. Well done, considering the vintage's challenges.