2019 Pinot Noir, Pastorale Vineyard

Winemaker Notes The 2019 opens with red and black fruit, cracked black pepper, and fragrant rose petals. Dense and layered with raspberry, black cherry, violet, and a dried herb and earthy mineral quality. A wine of great freshness, tension, and structure for long-term aging.

Winemaking Data Highlighting favorite areas within our Pastorale Vineyard, the 2019 vintage showcases Calera, Clone 777, and Swan. Clusters were hand-sorted to separate the best for a 35% whole cluster fermentation which resulted in a focused, texturally refined wine.

Vintage Notes In 2019, bud break occurred around the same time as 2018 but was delayed compared to our historical averages due to cold, saturated soils from the wet winter, particularly in February. Cool weather continued throughout spring with an unusual amount of rainfall which delayed bloom in some areas. Canopy management was key in 2019 due to vigorous growth and moderate temperatures. July was cooler than average, but August and September warmed to push ripening ahead. In 2019, the quality of Pinot Noir from our Sonoma Coast estate was excellent with well-developed flavors, naturally fresh acidity and superb balance.

Reviews 95 Points - Robert Parker Wine Advocate
Medium ruby-purple, the 2019 Pinot Noir Pastorale Vineyard has alluring aromas of blackberry jam, raspberry, dried citrus, spice and potpourri. Medium-bodied, the palate is silky and plush with a balance of intense fruit and uplifting freshness, and it finishes very long and layered. -EB (June 2021)

96 Points - James Suckling
Intense black mushroom, earth and blackberry. Some dried strawberry, too. Full-bodied, but very tight and reserved. The palate shows lots of blue fruit with blackberries and hints of dark chocolate. Linear and racy. Gorgeous now, but holding back. Try after 2022. -JS (Jan. 2022)

94 Points - Antonio Galloni's Vinous
The 2019 Pinot Noir Freestone Vineyards Pastorale Vineyard is bright and punchy in the glass. Sweet red cherry, blood orange, mint, spice and sweet pipe tobacco give the 2019 its bold, up-front personality. The 2019 beautifully balances fruit and structure. Drink it over the next decade or so. -AG (Jan. 2021)

92 Points - Jeb Dunnuck
The 2019 Pinot Noir Pastorale Vineyard leads more with its fruit, yet still has plenty of spice, dried orange, and black tea aromas and flavors. With medium-bodied richness, light, elegant tannins, integrated acidity, and a good finish, it's already drinking nicely yet will cruise for 5-7 years. -JD (July 2021)

Tasting Notes Download Tasting Notes (pdf)