Cleary Ranch Pinot Noir 2014
Sonoma Coast
Reviews
93
Terroirist
Light ruby color. Such pretty aromatics: fresh strawberries, red currants, wild raspberries, topped in rhubarb, roses, some deeper violet and cinnamon-spice notes. This is tart and zippy on the palate, a medium-bodied wine with dusty but structured tannins. A vibrant and crisp appeal to this wine, with red cherries, raspberries, the fruit is tart and crunchy yet shows some velvetiness. Mineral and earth undertones, hints of coffee and cedar but this is a minimalist style Pinot, and it sports a long, crisp finish. So much to love about this beautiful wine. Aged 10 months in 40% new French oak, from the Cleary Ranch Vineyard in the West Sonoma Coast. (93 points)
Downslope from his father's Freestone Hill Vineyard, John Cleary and his family have their own parcel of West Sonoma Coast vineyard land: this 6-acre plot. Curiously, this particular vineyard exhibits a lower-than-expected conversion rate—we see a full point lower from this parcel than we see from fruit picked 100 yards up the hill. Still, fruit from this vineyard exhibits all of the classic notes that make Sonoma County Pinot Noir famous.
Dark fruit reigns supreme with this bold wine. The aromas are full and vibrant, with hints of plum, dried roses, clove, and black peppercorn. Rich and juicy flavors follow, making The Settler ripe, round, and lush on the palate. The wine pairs best with rich, hearty food.
Dark fruit reigns supreme with this bold wine. The aromas are full and vibrant, with hints of plum, dried roses, clove, and black peppercorn. Rich and juicy flavors follow, making The Settler ripe, round, and lush on the palate. The wine pairs best with rich, hearty food.
| Region | Freestone Hill | |
| Appellation | Sonoma Coast | |
| Vineyard | Cleary Ranch | |
| Farming Method | Sustainable | |
| Aging/Cooperage | 30% New French Oak, 10 months | |
| Release Date | Spring 2016 | |
| Alcohol | 12.5% | |
| Production | 388 cases |