($22):  Gloria Ferrer, well known for delectable sparkling wines, has made a California Pinot Noir that emphasizes elegance over sheer power.  I suspect their experience with using Pinot Noir in sparkling wine explains the finesse and relatively low–13.5% stated alcohol–in this lively wine.  It conveys a refreshing delicacy often lacking in California Pinot Noir and marries spice with bright red fruit flavors.   Not overwrought, it allows the magic of Pinot Noir to bloom in the glass. 91 Michael Apstein Dec 27, 2011