The 2023 Pinot Noir Julia's Vineyard is another fabulous entry-level wine, if you can even call it that. Bright, rich and forward, the oak is front and center, but it frames and braces the wine nicely. Spice tones and dark red cherry fruit form the core. There's real character and Santa Maria Valley identity here. This is particularly impressive at $25.

Billy Norris - Vinous Media (90)