Though not shy, with a seriously endowed core of blackberry and boysenberry compote flavors, this stays bright and racy, with mouthwatering acidity stretching things out to let in black tea, sweet tobacco and dried anise notes. Reveals a late flash of savory and minerally accents on the finish, ultimately offering a nice counterpoint to the fruit. Best from 2024 through 2031. 1,200 cases made.

The 2021 Pinot Noir (Sonoma Coast) is a real stand out, as it so often does. Dark blue/purplish fruit, spice, menthol, licorice and lavender are all amplified. This potent, deep Pinot packs a serious punch. I wouldn't plan on opening a bottle anytime soon. This is one of the most heady Sonoma Coast bottlings I have tasted from Rivers-Marie.