Arista

Arista is small, family-owned and has spent more than three decades on the same narrow brief: hand-crafted Pinot Noir and Chardonnay that express the finest vineyard sites in Sonoma County. Michael's note is short and to the point, good Pinot and good ambiance, and his 8 for both wine and ambiance backs it.

The approach rests on sustainable farming and enduring partnerships with top-tier Russian River Valley growers, which is how a small house gets access to sites it does not own. Production is limited and the wines are offered several times a year to A-List members. Visits are private tastings by appointment on 707-473-0606, which keeps the room quiet. There is an events programme and a published accolades page. A clear highlight on a Russian River Valley tour built around Pinot.