The 2021 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir is a textbook example of the fine wines that come from grapes grown near our coastal boundaries. Cooling fog and our proximity to the Pacific Ocean allow fruit to ripen slowly and evenly. From a blend of clones, this graceful wine presents a floral, fruity profile with contrasting earthy undertones. This youthful and pretty wine offers notes of sandalwood, black tea, and dried rose petals, along with savory spice and a dusting of cocoa. Silky and tightly knit tannins marry with bright acidity leading into a palate with layers of forest floor, dark berries and plum. The finish is refreshing and long.
TASTING NOTES:
Aromas of seaweed and umami with bark and sea salt as well as strawberry. Medium body. Red berries on the palate. Savory and flavorful. Yet agile. Ready to go.
- James Suckling, 94 pts.
Deeply colored and aromatically compelling, this Pinot gives waves of dark cherry, blackberry and black tea on the nose. The palate is rich and textured but juicy, with flavors of Bing cherry, cocoa powder and raspberry. A core of mouthwatering orange-peel acid holds down the finish.
- Wine Enthusiast, 93 pts.
Backed by singed anise and black tea accents, this bursts with mulberry and cherry notes. Offers a frankly toasty frame, but the fruit wins out easily. This will provide very tasty drinking in the near future. Drink now through 2029.
- Wine Spectator, 93 pts.
The 2021 Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast has a very pretty and lifted profile in its aromas of red berries and pepper spice, and it’s very rosy, with ultra-fine tannins. It has a silky texture and is evenly balanced. Very elegantly styled, I would encourage readers who were not fans of the old style to check this out. It’s approachable now, but it won’t be lost if held for another 8-10 years.
- Jeb Dunnuck, 93 pts.
The 2021 Pinot Noir (Sonoma Coast) is a delight. Plump and forward, the 2021 offers up succulent dark cherry, plum, spice, licorice and new leather. Soft, plush contours wrap it all together. Readers will find a bold Pinot that is ready to provide pleasure.
- Vinous, 90 pts.
