Varietal of the Month: Pinot Noir

 

Pinot Noir is light bodied with moderate to high acidity and alcohol levels between 12-15% that makes it eminently pair worthy with a wide range of foods. A cool climate grape, Pinot Noir can be finicky and difficult to grow, but it is also expressive and reflective of the place where it’s grown. Here in Sonoma County, in the Russian River Valley and along the Sonoma Coast, we have some of world’s best vineyards and growing conditions for producing classic Pinot Noir of elegance and complexity.

 

Here are capsule reviews of Pinot Noir you may find along the Wine Road.

 

 

ACTA 2021 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley

The ACTA 2021 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley is a blend from two Russian River Valley vineyards. Acta Non Verba means Deeds not Words, the producer’s commitment to doing everything with intention. And this first vintage of Pinot Noir was a revelation! It’s a dance of spice and red fruits with balanced tannins and great acidity On the nose, dark cherry, raspberry and pomegranate with a core of baking spice, vanilla, and a whiff of dried tobacco leaf. On the palate it’s bright and light, yet savory with notes of allspice, cranberry, and fleshy dark cherry. Full of texture and well balanced, it has long smooth finish with a hint of black plum and trace of clove.

 

ABV 14.5%

$75

 

 

Mill Creek 2020 Pinot Noir Swensrud Vineyard, Sonoma County

 

The Mill Creek 2020 Pinot Noir, Swensrud Vineyard, is truly satisfying. On the nose, a medley of dried strawberry, raspberry, clove, vanilla and earthy notes of mushroom and tobacco leaf. On the palate, a nice balance of fruit, acid and tannin with flavors of tart cherry, hibiscus, rose hips, anise, and a deep grounding note of ripe red plum. It’s balanced and elegant with a long earthy and spicy finish.

 

ABV 13.6%

$66

 

 

Orsi Family 2021 Pinot Noir Eastside Road Vineyard, Russian River Valley

 

The Orsi Family 2021 Pinot Noir, Eastside Road Vineyard, Russian River Valley is pale ruby in the glass with a slight blue tinge. On the nose hibiscus, spicy carnation, blueberry and cranberry. On the palate a carnival of delight both savory and bright with notes dried strawberry, spun sugar, blood orange and tart cherry. It’s like a tone poem, a veritable ode to Pinot Noir.

 

ABV 14.1%

$44

 

Papapietro Perry 2021 Pinot Noir, Nunes Vineyard, Russian River Valley

 

The Papapietro Perry 2021 Pinot Noir, Nunes Vineyard has all the earmarks of a classic Russian River Valley Pinot. The aromatic nose is composed of dusty rose petal, candied violet, vanilla, raspberry, black cherry and a dash of white pepper. It has great texture with initial notes of plum sauce, wild blueberry, blood orange, raspberry. The mid palate delivers earthy flavors of mushroom, sweet tobacco and baking spice. A long smooth finish is balanced with deep notes of blackberry, cranberry and spicy clove. Age worthy and will develop further complexity over time, but simply delicious right now as well.

 

ABV 13.1%

$66

 

 

Sonoma-Cutrer 2021 Pinot Noir, Les Plus Haut, Russian River Valley

 

The Sonoma-Cutrer 2021 Pinot Noir, Les Plus Haut has a hypnotic deep purple-blue hue in the glass. The soft aromatic nose has an array of notes including rose water, blueberry, black cherry, strawberry, leather, clove, vanilla, cigar and plum. It’s a heady rush to the olfactory senses. On the palate, a balanced and well-integrated interplay of acid and tannins deliver tart layered flavors of cherry, red raspberry, wild blueberry, smoky fig, rhubarb and a dusting of cocoa. Each sip brings a new facet to savor.

 

ABV 14.3%

$70

 

Viszlay Vineyards 2019 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley

 

The Viszlay Vineyards 2019 Pinot Noir is like a sleeping beauty that awakens upon the first sip. It’s alluring and pretty with scents of raspberry, clove, cherry cola, violet, mocha and bright strawberry. On the palate, it’s well balanced with medium acidity, smooth tannins and a delicate purple heart of dark fruits with plum, blackberry, wild blueberry, and fleshy black cherry. The long spicy finish has a wonderful savory note of thyme at the end.

 

ABV 12.9%

$65

 

 

Varietal of the Month: Sauvignon Blanc

Sauvignon Blanc is well known for it’s spiky, lively acidity. Flavors range from lean, green and grassy, to creamy notes of passion fruit and fleshy peach depending on climate and how the wine is aged be it in stainless steel or oak. When it comes to food pairing—Sauvignon Blanc is the ultimate flex, versatile and accommodating to a vast array of foods from oysters on the half shell to cheese and charcuterie, or tomato based dishes.

 

Here are capsule reviews of Sauvignon Blanc you may find along the Wine Road.

 

 

ACAIBO 2023 Sauvignon Blanc, Sonoma County

 

The ACAIBO 2023 Sauvignon Blanc is the personal creation of Gonzague & Claire Lurton steeped in California terroir. On the nose, a delicate scent of sweet hay, ginger and green peppercorn. The palate is rich yet lean with Rainier cherry, lemon, honeyed-saffron and amber. Steely and precise, the long finish rides a wave of zippy acidity. Go with a classic pairing—oysters on the half shell.

 

ABV 13.5%

$ N/A

 

 

Baldassari 2023 Sauvignon Blanc, Knights Valley, Sonoma County

 

The Baldassari 2023 Sauvignon Blanc from Knights Valley in Sonoma County is pale yellow in the glass. On the nose, it’s a complex bouquet of lemongrass, white peach, ginger, lychee and a note of butterscotch. On the palate it’s fresh and sunshiny—a medley of citrus, limestone and honeydew with a flinty note of gooseberry and sea salt on the tangy finish. Pair with the beach and a good book!

ABV 13.2%

$ N/A

 

 

J. Bucher 2023 Sauvignon Blanc, Russian River Valley

 

The J. Bucher 2023 Sauvignon Blanc is from the Middle Reach of the Russian River Valley appellation. On the nose, scents of pink grapefruit, creamy peach and mango with a salty-lime note reminiscent of a Margarita. On the palate it has rolly–polly mouthfeel; both soft and spiky with flavors of guava, ginger, slate, lemon, green apple and grapefruit pith. It’s textured and elegant with fine balance on the finish. Pair with Scallop Ceviche.

 

ABV 14.1%

$38

 

 

J. Rickards Winery 2023 Sauvignon Blanc, Croft Vineyard, Alexander Valley

 

The 2023 J. Rickards Sauvignon Blanc is from the Croft Vineyard in Alexander Valley. On the nose, enticing scents of jasmine, lemon grass, and salty buttered bread fill the glass. On the palate, it opens soft and creamy with notes of peach and fleshy Rainier cherry. Secondary flavors of kiwi and grapefruit follow with salty crisp acidity on the long finish. Pair with Tomato and Peach Caprese Salad.

 

ABV 14.2%

$30

 

 

Pedroncelli 2023 Giovanni & Giulia Sauvignon Blanc, Dry Creek Valley

 

The Pedroncelli 2023 Giovanni & Giulia Sauvignon Blanc from Dry Creek Valley is named for the founders of the winery, which is fast approaching the 100^th year in operation. On the nose fresh peach, lychee, honeydew melon, ginger and lime. It’s zesty with an approachable complexity of flavors that range from all-spice to lychee to caramelized pineapple and jalapeño. Pair with Grilled Pork Tenderloin and Chimichurri sauce.

 

ABV 13.5%

$22

 

Sonoma-Cutrer 2023 Sauvignon Blanc, Russian River Valley

 

The Sonoma-Cutrer 2023 Sauvignon Blanc from Russian River Valley is a pale straw color with a tinge of green. On the nose a soft scent of peaches and cream with notes of lime and rose water. On the palate, crisp and bracing flavors of pink grapefruit, pear, honeydew, lychee and slate with soft secondary notes of vanilla and butterscotch. The long lingering finish buzzes with acidity. Pair with grilled Mango Chicken.

 

ABV 12.2%

$25

 

Varietal of the Month: Sauvignon Blanc

 

Sauvignon Blanc is one of the Noble Grapes noted for its high acidity and aromatics. Flavors range from lean, green and grassy; to creamy with notes of passion fruit and fleshy peach depending on climate and how the wine is aged be it in stainless steel or oak. Texture is the name of the game with Sauvignon Blanc, serve cold and prepare to be refreshed. When it comes to food pairing—Sauvignon Blanc is the ultimate flex, versatile and accommodating to a vast array of foods from oysters on the half shell to cheese and charcuterie, and even tomato based dishes. 

Here are some capsule reviews of Sauvignon Blanc you may find along the Wine Road.

J. Bucher 2022 Bucher Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc, Russian River Valley

The J. Bucher 2022 Bucher Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc from Russian River Valley shines in the glass with a bright straw gold color. On the nose a profusion of bright scents including honeydew, peach, guava, marigold, and passion fruit. On the palate the first word that comes to mind is—Yummy! It’s rich with flavors of grapefruit, creamy peach, ginger and salty lemon with a light acidity that ties it all together like the rug in the Dude’s apartment. Both sweet and tart with a soft mouth feel and a hint of salted butter on the finish. Pair with Scallop Ceviche.

AVB 13.0%
$38

David Coffaro 2022 Sauvignon Blanc, Dry Creek Valley

The David Coffaro 2022 Sauvignon Blanc from Dry Creek Valley is a pale gold in color. It has a beautiful soft scent with notes of guava, white peach, chalk, passion fruit and a touch of warm spun sugar that is immensely engaging. On the palate initial hints of chalk and grapefruit make way for juicy, crisp notes of nectarine, peach and ginger with a wonderful salinity. Complex and exciting, 9% of Riesling gives it a great lift and balance to the zesty citrus acidity that is characteristic of Sauvignon Blanc. Pair with Panzanella Salad.

ABV 14.4%
$28

Dry Creek Vineyard 2021 Sauvignon Blanc, Dry Creek Valley

The Dry Creek Vineyard 2021 Sauvignon Blanc from Dry Creek Valley, is blended from the clones of Sauvignon Musqué and Sauvignon Gris and is a veritable Master Class in texture and classic flavor profiles. On the nose creamy peach, warm amber passion fruit, ginger and guava with a spicy note of pink peppercorn. On the palate it’s juicy, bright and vibrating with spikey acidity, featuring flavors of honeydew melon, peaches & cream, tart citrus and a light kick of jalapeño. Go with a classic pairing—oysters on the half shell.

ABV 14.1%
$25

Orsi Family 2021 Sauvignon Blanc, Dry Creek Valley

The Orsi Family 2021 Sauvignon Blanc from Dry Creek Valley has a pale yellow color with a slight green tinge at the rim. Tropical notes of grapefruit, pineapple and guava co-mingle with a chalky salinity that brings to mind saltine crackers. On the palate the flavors coalesce with with notes of ginger, honeydew melon, a bit of grapefruit pith and a lithe herbal quality that rings of pea shoots and sage. Pair with Grilled Pork Tenderloin with Chimichurri.

ABV 13.5%
$28

Pedroncelli 2022 Giovanni & Giulia Sauvignon Blanc, Dry Creek Valley

The Pedroncelli 2022 Giovanni & Giulia Sauvignon Blanc, Dry Creek Valley is a pale yellow gold color, with qualities both bright and savory. The nose is a sensory wonder wall with notes of lemon peel, ginger, warm peach cobbler, and tropical notes of pineapple and guava. On the palate, a quenching combination of grapefruit pith, bold tart citron and a jalapeno-honey note that gives balance and grounding to the acidity.  Pair with Peach Caprese Salad.

ABV 13.9%
$22

Selby 2022 Sauvignon Blanc, Russian River Valley

The Selby 2022 Sauvignon Blanc from Russian River Valley raises the question—What wizardry is at play here? It’s like a trip to the boardwalk with the scent of the salty sea and warm peachy cotton candy with vanilla and spicy ginger swirling in the air. On the palate, a soft mouth feel with notes of creamy peach and Bartlett pear with a crisp pop of acidity on the clean and fresh cucumber-sage like finish. Pair with Grilled Mango Chicken.

ABV 14.0%
$25

Sonoma-Cutrer 2022 Sauvignon Blanc, Russian River Valley 

The Sonoma-Cutrer 2022 Sauvignon Blanc from Russian River Valley is a pale golden straw color with a tint of green. On the nose a compelling blend of honeycomb, peach, basil and buttered sourdough. On the palate, zesty bright notes of grapefruit and jalapeño are balanced out with notes of wet chalk, vanilla, guava and peach. Great texture and acidity with notes of limestone, green olive, and fresh cut grass on the finish. Pair with warm tomato and goat cheese tart.

ABV 12.2 %
$25

Style of the Month: Rosé

Are you ready to Think Pink? It’s time to roll out the Rosé and slip into the warm embrace of summertime. Although Rosé has become a year-round choice—it shines brightest in the summer. Light and lively, with flavors of strawberry, watermelon and spice—Rosé is the crisp and refreshing choice for your table as well as the picnics and barbecues that make the season special. Depending on the varietal it’s made from, the color can range from deep salmon to a translucent onionskin to barely there pale pink.

 

Here are some capsule reviews of Rose wine you may find along the Wine Road.

 

Martinelli 2022 Roséof Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast

 

The Martinelli 2022 Rosé of Pinot Noir from Sonoma Coast is rich and full flavored. On the nose, orange peel, strawberry and a hint of thyme. On the palate, brilliant acidity with juicy notes of grapefruit, citrus zest, and crabapple, in balance with grounding notes of black olive and cayenne. The long satisfying finish has an earthy cohesion. Both Ying and Yang, this delicious Rosé of Pinot Noir is not to be missed. Pair with barbecue spare ribs.

 

ABV 14.8%

$28

 

Merriam 2022 Rose of Pinot Noir, RRV

 

The Merriam 2022 Rosé of Pinot Noir from Russian River Valley has a delicate pale pink color. On the nose scents of rose petals, strawberry and peaches with touch of cranberry. It’s refreshing and bright with bracing acidity and flavors of juicy watermelon, strawberry, peach and crisp apple. Lively spicy finish with notes of grapefruit and kiwi. Like the potato chip dare—you won’t be able to stop at one sip. It may be cliché to say —but it’s truly summer in a glass. Pair with goat cheese and pear salad.

 

ABV 13.9%

$30

 

Moshin Vineyards 2022Rose of Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley  

 

The Moshin Vineyards 2022 Rosé of Pinot Noir from Russian River Valley softly glows with a light pink-salmon color. An enticing floral nose with notes of amber, lavender and grapefruit fills the glass. It is full of rich and juicy flavors of strawberry, cherry lemonade, and bright ginger. It evolves and deepens as it warms, showing red apple and quince and a touch of basil as it glides to a long spicy finish. Pair with grilled shrimp and pineapple fried rice.

 

ABV 13.5%

$ 32

 

Pedroncelli 2022 DryCreek Valley Rose of Zinfandel

 

The Pedroncelli 2022 Rosé of Zinfandel from Dry Creek Valley shines in the glass with a pink-marmalade color. On the nose an aromatic parade of rosebuds, strawberry, rhubarb and raspberry. The palate is precise and clean with notes of cinnamon, raspberry, watermelon and all spice. It has bright acidity with a core of fresh red fruits that packs a wallop of serious flavor into a fun and easy drinking Rosé. An earthy brambly note emerges on the long spicy finish. Pair with spicy tuna sushi rolls.

 

ABV 13.9%

Peterson 2021Bradford Mountain Rose, Dry Creek Valley

 

The Peterson 2021 Rosé from Dry Creek Valley is many-splendored thing comprised of 66% Zinfandel, 18% Petite Sirah, and 16% Grenache. It’s a medium pink salmon color with a spring-like scent in the glass, most notably the alluring fragrance of freesias. Complex and multilayered with a medley of strawberry, peach and citrus flavors on the palate. Each sip brings a new dimension. The spicy finish has a touch of anise and quince under the persistent creamy strawberry flavor. Keep sipping and enjoy the ride. Pair with Salmon cakes and Panzanella salad.

 

AVB 12.7%

$24

 

Sonoma-Cutrer 2022Rose of Pinot Noir, RRV

 

The Sonoma-Cutrer 2022 Rosé of Pinot Noir from Russian River Valley is an ode to summertime. In the glass it’s a barely there blush of pink that belies it’s bounty of flavor. On the nose a floral bouquet of grapefruit, orange blossoms, rose petals and a pleasing herbal touch of thyme. On the palate it’s bright and fresh with great acidity and flavors of watermelon and strawberry, with a minty-ginger note on the finish. It’s like a spa treatment for your taste buds. Pair with Feta, mint and watermelon salad.

 

ABV 11.9%

$20