Fogline Vineyards
2011 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir •Sun Chase Vineyard
California: Sonoma County: Sonoma Coast
Mission Briefing
Above the Fog
We are very pleased to bring you today’s Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir, which marks the debut of Fogline Vineyards. This small, scrappy winery is located right down the way from Wine Spies HQ, and we’re thrilled to have stumbled upon them.
If you’re on the lookout for an under-the-radar hidden gem, then today is your day. Punching far above its price point, today’s Pinot has a clear streak of elegance shining through it that had our Tasting Panel referencing Burgundy over and over again. This refined characteristic is paired with well balanced flavors and a delightful note of tartness in the finish.
Today’s wine drinks beautifully now, but with its fine structure and acidity, it’s sure to cellar beautifully as well. Be sure to stock up on enough for both!
Tasting Profile
| Look: | A deep, beautiful crimson, like a homemade cherry cobbler. |
|---|---|
| Smell: | Everything you love in a Pinot is present and accounted for in today’s wine. Clear notes of black cherry, wild strawberry, and raspberry are laid overtop summer bramble, tobacco leaf, baked cherry cordial, and subtle dried wild mushrooms. |
| Taste: | A touch on the elegant side of the Pinot spectrum, with very well balanced and well proportioned flavors. Blackberry and dark black cherry lead the way, quickly followed by slightly tart cranberry, sweet tobacco, fresh forest floor, berry bramble, and herbal black tea. |
| Finish: | A delightful Pinot with some clear Burgundian characteristics. Showing fine tannin structure and acidity, today’s Pinot can be enjoyed now or after a few years in the cellar. |
| Pairing: | A whole chicken, slowly roasted in cast iron with grapes, fresh rosemary, and olive oil. |
What the Winery Says
- Winemaker
- Brent Bessire
- Accolades
- 91 Points - Wine Review Online
- Appellation
- Sonoma Coast
- Vineyard
- Sun Chase Vineyard
- Fruit Variety
- 100% Pinot Noir
- Vineyard Clones
- Clones 667 and 777