Raen, “Sea Field Vineyard” Pinot Noir Fort Ross-Seaview, Sonoma Coast, California 2019 (750mL)

From vineyards on the extreme Sonoma Coast, Carlo and Dante Mondavi (grandsons of California icon Robert) strive for maximum terroir transparency in their assorted Pinot Noir cuvées. The wines are crafted via whole-cluster fermentations using native yeasts, then aged in neutral French oak from 10-20 months, depending on the vintage and the source vineyard site. These wines have wowed us over the years—their finessed style is strongly reminiscent of top-tier Chambolle-Musigny from Burgundy.

Here’s what the Mondavis say about the “Sea Field” bottling, which is made using 80% whole grape clusters:

“Year after year, Sea Field Vineyard is our most elegant bottling. Situated on an ancient sea field composed of rock and gravel remnants from the ocean floor, the vineyard sits just two miles from the cool Pacific Ocean. Sea Field soars high at 1,500 feet in elevation and shares a delicate story from this beautiful, raw expanse.

The wine opens elegantly with crushed ripe raspberries, coastal moss and orange pith. Aromas of violets, dried herbs and wild berries follow, with notes of forest floor, sea moss, wet rock and just a hint of sea salt, transporting us to this rugged and remote coastal site. Vibrant notes of candied orange, white tea and rose petals linger, giving way to a seemingly everlasting finish.”