91POINTS
16¾/20
Davis Bynum Pinot Noir 2021
Russian River, Sonoma County, California, United StatesWinemaker Greg Morthole blends fruit from six Russian River Valley vineyards: River West, Middle Reach, Oak Meadows, Jane’s, Dutton Ranch, and Shone Farms; and five clones: 115, 667, 777, Pommard, and Wente. This is off the Pleasanton gravelly clay loam, the Yolo sandy clay loam, and Goldridge fine sandy loam. It spent 14 months in French/Hungarian oak barrels, of which 40% were new. The wine is all about red fruits on the nose with some pleasant spice. I like how winemaker Greg Morthole tempers the Russian River power, looking to more subtle savoury, earthy, cherry, and round soft tannins. In 2021, Morthole blended warmer central Sonoma fruit with grapes grown in cooler western coastal areas to create a wine with tension. The blend was aged 14 months. The alcohol is 14.5%, more than the Russian River, but everything is balanced. Grilled salmon, mushroom pasta, chicken, and pork all work here.Tasted: 12 January 2024Tasted by: Anthony GismondiPrices:BC | $42.99 | 750ml | select private retailers |
AB | $36.99 | 750ml | select private retailers |
ON | $36.95 | 750ml | Spot Buy if Approved |
QC | $43.50 | 750ml | Spot Buy if Approved |
Grape: Pinot NoirCSPC: 105486UPC: 0087512887459