Certainly something of a 'fringe category' in the big world of wine, but the Pinot Noirs from the Loire Valley can be very interesting beverages particularly in vintages that are a little riper like 2009.  Think of this more along the lines of a ripe spätburgunder than something from Santa Rita Hills, with bright ruby color, tender but crunchy red cherry fruit, bright flavors and a fine streak of minerality.  This is a delicate yet persistent take on the varietal that has enought flesh to make it work.  High toned and quite pretty.