Occidental ‘Bodega Ridge’ Pinot Noir 2021

“The 2021 Pinot Noir Bodega Ridge Vineyard is tightly coiled to begin, slowly unfurling pure aromas of raspberry and pomegranate, shiitake mushrooms, iodine, pipe tobacco, licorice and tremendous floral perfume. The light-bodied palate is more open at this youthful stage, bursting with expressive red fruit. It’s structurally seamless, its powerful, velvety tannins balanced by focused acidity that drives the wine forward, and it has a very long finish with a kaleidoscopic array of spicy accents. It gained weight and nuance for several days after the bottle was opened and will be long lived in the cellar.” 97+pts Erin Brooks The Wine Advocate

“A ripe ruby red color, the 2021 Pinot Noir Bodega Ridge Vineyard comes from a parcel that sits atop the property’s highest ridge, overlooking the Running Fence Vineyard and the winery. The wine is electric with bright red cherries, blood orange peel, spices, cranberries, and bright spice. Medium-bodied, with compact intensity and ripe, chiseled tannins juxtaposed with citrus-noted lift, it’s chiseled and long, with great definition. It offers a great, persistent mineral texture and refinement. Drink 2026-2046.” 98pts Audrey Frick JebDunnuck.com