Founded by Carlo and Dante Mondavi, RAEN was built to push the boundary of extreme coastal viticulture along the Pacific rim. Carrying forward three generations of winemaking heritage, the brothers focus exclusively on cool-climate site expression through non-interventionist farming and traditional whole-cluster fermentations. Rising above mass-market California Pinot Noir, RAEN creates timeless, age-worthy wines that benchmark the true potential of the Sonoma Coast.
Perched at 1,200 feet overlooking the ocean, the monochrome "Sea Field" vineyard yields a 100% whole-cluster Pinot Noir defined by high-altitude coastal power and floral lift. The nose opens with crushed violets, dark raspberries, pine needle, and wild sage, while the palate unfolds with dark-berry concentration and structural granite drive. Decidely ocean-drenched with vibrant acidity and refined tannins, this cuvée offers exceptional cellar potential.
Critical Acclaim:
98 Points, James Suckling:
"Aromas of seaweed, fresh and dried strawberries, salt and white pepper. Medium- to full-bodied, showing persistence, intensity and structure, with firm, muscular tannins. Long, lightly chewy finish. Needs three to four years to soften, but a solid wine. Best in 2028 and beyond." (Feb 2026)
95 Points, Vinous Media:
"The 2024 Pinot Noir Sea Field is powerful and tightly wound. Dark-toned fruit, leather, cedar, spice, incense and dried rose petal infuse the 2024 with tons of complexity. This potent, deep Pinot Noir packs a tremendous punch. There's a lot of wine here, but this needs time to soften and for the mid-palate to emerge. There's a striking, crystalline purity here." - Antonio Galloni (Jan 2026)
Why You'll Love It
- Single-vineyard bottling from iconic 1980 dry-farmed vines located just two miles from the ocean.
- 100% whole-cluster fermentation provides extraordinary botanical perfume and peppery lift.
- Brimming with tart red fruits, marine salinity, pine resin, and fine, chalky tannins.
How To Serve It
- Serve at a cool room temperature between 58°F and 62°F.
- Decant for 45 minutes to let the tight coastal structure and whole-cluster spice unwind.
- Pour into Burgundy stems to gather its expansive perfume.
- Excellent alongside herb-crusted duck breast, venison carpaccio, or roasted squab.