Crafted from estate vineyards in the cooler reaches of Alexander Valley, this Pinot Noir is fermented in small lots and aged in French oak to preserve varietal elegance while adding subtle complexity. Despite the region's warmer reputation, the wine delivers a balanced, Burgundian-inspired style with bright fruit, earthy nuances, and refined structure.
Tasting Notes
Appearance: Bright ruby with light garnet hues.
Aromas: Perfumed aromas of red and black cherry, raspberry, vanilla, baking spice, cedar, and subtle forest floor with hints of cinnamon and mint.
Palate: Silky and medium-bodied, offering flavors of fresh cherry, blueberry, plum, and raspberry layered with notes of barrel spice, vanilla, cocoa, and earthy mushroom. Fresh acidity and soft tannins provide balance and finesse.
Finish: Smooth and persistent, with lingering red fruit, gentle oak spice, and earthy undertones.
Food Pairings
- Cedar plank salmon
- Roast duck breast
- Herb-roasted chicken
- Mushroom risotto
- Pork tenderloin
- Brie or Gruyère
Professional Ratings
- 91 Points – James Suckling: "An estate-grown wine with dark, dusky fruit flavors and a broad, substantial mouthfeel. Black cherries, dark plums and hints of forest floor and mushrooms on a full body with light tannins."
- 88 Points – Wine Enthusiast: Praised for aromas of roasted cherry, mint, and cinnamon with flavors of strawberry, vanilla, and cedar. Drink now–2030.
- 88 Points (Silver Medal) – Tastings.com: Commended for baked red cherry, cocoa, mushroom, and herb notes with a medium-long finish.
Overall Review
The 2022 Alexander Valley Vineyards Estate Pinot Noir is an elegant, value-driven California Pinot that blends ripe fruit with savory complexity. Its silky texture, vibrant acidity, and restrained oak make it an excellent everyday Pinot Noir with broad food-pairing appeal. While not as delicate as coastal Sonoma expressions, it offers impressive depth and balance for its price.
Wine Enthusiast
Aromas of roasted cherry, mint and cinnamon waft from the glass on the nose of this Pinot. The palate delivers a wave of fresh strawberry, vanilla and cedar that mingle across the finish. Drink now-2030. — Tom R. Capo
