93-94
One of the few domestic Pinot producers I really enjoy. Close proximity to the coast and whole cluster use normally gets me intrigued, especially when you see ABVs in the 12-13 range.
Pop and poured for a quarterly wine dinner. Theme was domestic Pinot and Sauvignon Blanc (I also opened a 2023 Mowe SB…lights out good). 13.6ABV. Winner of the night was a 2000 Marcassin.
Translucent red/purple in the glass. Gorgeous and fragrant…lovely floral notes on the nose (potpourri spice, violets). The palate sports crunchy red and black berry fruits, herbs/green and spice from the whole cluster use…some mint and black tea too. Bright and nervy acidity with nice mid-palate depth (can be tough to do at lower ABVs). Followed over two days and held strong. Lovely.
Compared to the ‘17 Doc’s Swan & Calera, this showed a touch more weight and power with a little less complexity at the finish. Very much enjoyed both for different reasons.
93-94
One of the few domestic Pinot producers I really enjoy. Close proximity to the coast and whole cluster use normally gets me intrigued, especially when you see ABVs in the 12-13 range.
Pop and poured for a quarterly wine dinner. Theme was domestic Pinot and Sauvignon Blanc (I also opened a 2023 Mowe SB…lights out good). 13.6ABV. Winner of the night was a 2000 Marcassin.
Translucent red/purple in the glass. Gorgeous and fragrant…lovely floral notes on the nose (potpourri spice, violets). The palate sports crunchy red and black berry fruits, herbs/green and spice from the whole cluster use…some mint and black tea too. Bright and nervy acidity with nice mid-palate depth (can be tough to do at lower ABVs). Followed over two days and held strong. Lovely.
Compared to the ‘17 Doc’s Swan & Calera, this showed a touch more weight and power with a little less complexity at the finish. Very much enjoyed both for different reasons.
Jul 1st, 2026
Sonoma Coast, Sonoma County, California, USA
