Bachelder's Pinot "Villages" incorporates less 'villages' (read: vineyards) then his Chardonnay: five in total (6 for the Chardonnay). Here there's a nice earthy, mocha, black cherry and subtle smokiness with really good acidity - as it opens there’s a floral (violet) character that develops into its own entity and the palate becomes juicy yet with a subtle minerality that adds an extra layer to this wine. “Villages” is the art of blending the same grape, and here Thomas has nailed it. Price: $34.95 - Rating: ****