2022 Frederic Magnien Croix-Violette Cote De Nuits-Villages

2022 Frederic Magnien Croix-Violette Cote De Nuits-Villages

with No Comment $40-$50BurgandyFranceKevin VogtPinot Noir

Frédéric Magnien

Croix-Violette 2022
Côte De Nuits-Villages

2022 Frederic Magnien Croix-Violette Cote De Nuits-Villages

Frédéric Magnien’s 2022 ‘Croix Violette’ whispers of place, patience, and precise artistry. Emerging from a storied vineyard in the village of Brochon, steps from the prestigious terroirs of Gevrey-Chambertin, this wine distills the spirit of the Côte de Nuits into a singular, vivid expression. Here, beneath ancient stone walls, vines 50 years old dig deeply into limestone-clay soils, lending the wine a profound mineral resonance.

Guiding this narrative is Frédéric Magnien, a fifth-generation vigneron whose winemaking philosophy bridges tradition with exploration. Frédéric’s formative experiences include working alongside visionary Josh Jensen at Calera Vineyards. Today, he meticulously oversees each organically farmed parcel, ensuring his wines convey authenticity.

Magnien’s hands-off approach is evident: native yeast fermentations in stainless steel and gentle maturation in French oak barrels, as well as carefully selected clay amphorae. This unique aging process imparts an elegant, silken texture while preserving the pristine clarity of the vineyard’s identity. At $49.99, the 2022 Croix Violette is an exceptional value that invites contemplation, stirs emotion, and lingers vividly in memory.

Frédéric Magnien
Croix-Violette 2022
Côte De Nuits-Villages

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“The 2022 Côte de Nuits-Village Croix Violette from Frédéric Magnien is a well-structured Pinot Noir that shows good concentration and balance. The nose offers aromas of ripe strawberries and dried rose petals, accented by mandarin peel, mild baking spices, dusty earth, cola, and mushrooms. On the palate, flavors of bright red cherries, black tea, and sweet red berries emerge, supported by a liquid saline note and a velvety, mouth-quenching texture. The finish is long and elegant. Drink now through 2032.”

94 points

2022 Solena Pinot Noir Hyland Vineyard Willamette Valley

2022 Solena Pinot Noir Hyland Vineyard Willamette Valley

with No Comment $40-$50Kevin VogtOregonPinot NoirUSAWillamette Valley

Soléna

Pinot Noir 2022
Hyland Vineyard
Willamette Valley

2022 Solena Pinot Noir Hyland Vineyard Willamette Valley

The 2022 Soléna Hyland Vineyard Pinot Noir is a wine of paradox: light on its feet yet unshakably grounded. Born from one of the Willamette Valley’s oldest sites, it captures the vineyard’s legacy in every shimmering layer, offering a profile that is earthy, lifted, and pure. This is Pinot Noir as poetry, delivered with grace and precision.

 

Hyland Vineyard occupies a distinctive corner of the McMinnville AVA, where cooling marine winds and elevated slopes converge to slow ripening and heighten complexity. The result is a Pinot Noir shaped as much by climate as by place: layered aromatics that lift and evolve, with a palate that pulses with red fruit, wet stone, and subtle floral tones.  

Crafted from 100% Pinot Noir, the 2022 vintage is a study in varietal clarity. This is a wine that invites reflection rather than demands attentionand reminds us that greatness in Pinot Noir often comes not from force, but from finesse, patience, and a deep respect for the land. 

Soléna
Pinot Noir 2022
Hyland Vineyard
Willamette Valley
Retails at: $68

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“A transparent medium red, the 2022 Pinot Noir Hyland Vineyard comes from 50-year-old vines grown on Jory volcanic soils in McMinnville. On the nose, it offers perfumed notes of potpourri, fresh redcurrants, a hint of cinnamon spice, roses, and fresh, lifted mountain herbs. Medium-bodied and approachable, it fills the palate with fine tannins, a weightless feel, and a clean finish. It offers a lot of finesse and charm, with a refreshing feel. Drink it over the next 15 years.”

94 Points

2022 Wentworth Pinot Noir Anderson Valley

2022 Wentworth Pinot Noir Anderson Valley

with No Comment $50-$60Anderson ValleyKevin VogtPinot NoirSonomaUSA

Wentworth

Pinot Noir 2022
Anderson Valley

2022 Wentworth Pinot Noir Anderson Valley

From the mist-shrouded hills of Anderson Valley, Wentworth’s 2022 Pinot Noir weaves a vibrant melody, blending Burgundian finesse with a distinctly Californian spirit. Cultivated at Wentworth’s organically farmed Nash Mill Vineyard, nestled in the cool-climate “Deep End” of Anderson Valley, this Pinot Noir exudes authenticity and refinement.

Guided by a Burgundian philosophy, the winemaking team deftly employs partial whole-cluster fermentation and native yeasts, allowing the wine’s truest character to emerge. Matured in French oak barrels, this Pinot Noir embodies the vineyard’s essence, delivering a textured, layered, and deeply natural experience.

Vibrant, layered, and irresistibly nuanced, the Wentworth 2022 Pinot Noir offers a sensory journey that lingers long after the final sip. A harmonious dance of acidity, fruit, and finely textured tannins, it vividly exemplifies the meticulous artistry that defines Wentworth’s winemaking.

Wentworth
Pinot Noir 2022
Anderson Valley

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“This lively wine offers aromas of youthful berries, red plums, dried herbs, florals and sea breeze. Flavors are of fresh strawberry, raspberry, yellow plum, sea salt and black tea, interwoven with pink grapefruit zest, dried sage and a dry, supple finish. Decant and pair with grilled lamb loin and seasonal berry relish.”

94 Points

2023 Pierre Guillemont Bourgogne Cote d'Or Burgundy France

2023 Pierre Guillemont Bourgogne Cote d’Or Burgundy France

with No Comment $40-$50BurgandyFranceKevin VogtPinot Noir

Pierre Guillemot

Bourgogne Côte d’Or
Burgundy, France 2023

2023 Pierre Guillemont Bourgogne Cote d'Or Burgundy France

Domaine Pierre Guillemot’s 2023 Bourgogne Côte d’Or is a luminous expression of Pinot Noir where tradition and terroir converge. The wine presents a striking clarity and purity of fruit, enhanced by a lively brightness that encapsulates the spirit of Burgundy’s Côte d’Or. Rich yet light, expressive yet restrained, this wine embodies the character of Pinot Noir perfectly.

The Guillemot family, stewards of their land, practice organic viticulture and holds the prestigious Haute Valeur Environnementale certification. Their commitment ensures each vine flourishes in soils of limestone and clay, imparting complexity, nuance, and a vibrant lift to every grape.

Through partial whole-cluster fermentation, the Guillemot brothers extract exceptional freshness and floral notes from each cluster. These meticulous techniques result in a wine that reflects its terroir and the family’s passion, making Burgundy’s celebrated elegance accessible. The 2023 Domaine Pierre Guillemot Bourgogne Côtes d’Or Red Burgundy is a vivid, unforgettable invitation to experience the true spirit of Burgundy.

Pierre Guillemot
Bourgogne Côte d’Or
Burgundy, France 2023

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“This 2023 Bourgogne Côte d’Or Rouge from Domaine Pierre Guillemot is a vibrant expression of Pinot Noir. The nose is inviting and complex, with bright red cherries, complemented by notes of cola bean and mandarin peel. Subtle hints of fresh mushrooms and English roses add depth, while a touch of crushed flint provides a distinctive mineral edge. On the palate, the wine is vibrant and penetrating, with red fruits and berries that are fresh, concentrated, and beautifully balanced. Liquid minerals add complexity, while the ripe, fleshy fruit ensures a satisfying and mouth-filling texture. The dance of fruit and minerality creates a harmonious whole, making this a delightful and authentic representation of the region.”

93 Points

2021 Grail Pinot Noir Campbell Ranch West Sonoma Coast

2021 Grail Pinot Noir Campbell Ranch West Sonoma Coast

with No Comment $90-$100Kevin VogtPinot NoirSonomaSonoma CoastUSA

Grail

Pinot Noir 2021
Campbell Ranch
West Sonoma Coast

2021 Grail Pinot Noir Campbell Ranch West Sonoma Coast

Grail 2021 ‘Campbell Ranch’ Pinot Noir is Dan Kosta’s defining achievement, embodying decades of dedication to mastering Pinot Noir. Reverently described as his “Grand Cru,” this wine reflects the precision, depth, and artistry that first brought Kosta Browne international acclaim. With this exceptional release, Dan reignites his innovative spirit, showcasing the vast potential of New World Pinot Noir.

Dan Kosta, a visionary co-founder of the legendary Kosta Browne Winery, transformed American Pinot Noir. Entrusting the gifted Shane Finley, who honed his craft under Dan’s mentorship, this collaboration marks a thrilling new expression of excellence in winemaking, rooted in meticulous craftsmanship and creative synergy.

Crafted from Sonoma Coast’s celebrated Campbell Ranch vineyard, this inaugural vintage is a blend of the elegant 777 and refined 115 Pinot Noir clones. After 15 months in French oak, the wine offers an enchanting, silky texture with savory spices harmonizing beautifully with pristine, ripe fruit. The Grail 2021 promises an unforgettable adventure of contemplation and indulgent pleasure.

Grail
Pinot Noir 2021
Campbell Ranch
West Sonoma Coast

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“Dan Kosta’s Convene wines are aged in 30% new oak, while his elevated DK label is closer to 50% for 15 months and encompasses specific blocks or barrel selections from single vineyards. Campbell Ranch vineyard in the Russian River Valley is the winery’s largest holding, with clones 777 and 115. There’s more power and intensity to these single vineyard wines. A wonderful minty freshness mingles with crushed river stones, white pepper, and intriguing umami notes. Medium to full-bodied with very present, substantial tannins that have beam-like qualities, a bit sappy and balanced by mocha notes. The entire wine has a broad feeling on the palate and builds with spicy richness. It’s layered with dense black cherry, pomegranate, spiced plums, and blood orange fruits, which have real staying power. The long finish is marked by warming brown sugar spices, toffee, and espresso beans. Plenty of heft balanced by great tension. 503 cases made.”

97 Points

2022 Kanzler Pinot Noir Russian River Valley

2022 Kanzler Pinot Noir Russian River Valley

with No Comment $50-$60Kevin VogtPinot NoirRussian River ValleySonomaUSA

Kanzler

Pinot Noir 2022
Russian River Valley

2022 Kanzler Pinot Noir Russian River Valley

With the 2022 vintage, Kanzler presents a Pinot Noir that unfolds like a dialogue between vineyard and winemaker—intimate, expressive, and unmistakably Russian River Valley. Each sip tells a story of meticulous craftsmanship, echoing Kanzler’s uncompromising dedication to producing Pinot Noir that surpasses anticipation, embodying vibrant fruit and layered character.

Kanzler Vineyard’s fruit is cherished, forming the backbone of some of California’s most celebrated Pinot Noirs for over two decades. When renowned producers like Kosta Browne, Lynmar, and Rivers-Marie consistently return vintage after vintage, it underscores the confidence inspired by extraordinary terroir and meticulous farming practices.

Winemaker Alex Kanzler skillfully blends estate-grown grapes with carefully selected fruit from four neighboring vineyards, each chosen for its unique contribution to the wine’s refined complexity. His intuitive approach to winemaking is gentle, precise, and thoughtful, resulting in a Pinot Noir of striking elegance and lasting presence. A wine that genuinely captures the heart and soul of the Russian River Valley.

Kanzler
Pinot Noir 2022
Russian River Valley
Retails at: $69

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“Aromas of toasty barrel spice and cherry lollipop waft from the nose of this medium bodied wine. The palate is saturated with flavors of raspberry candy, menthol, caramel and black tea. Pair this with miso glazed salmon. Best from 2026-2035.”

91 Points

2021 Dehlinger Goldridge Pinot Noir Russian River Valley

2021 Dehlinger Goldridge Pinot Noir Russian River Valley

with No Comment $60-$70Kevin VogtPinot NoirRussian River ValleySonomaUSA

Dehlinger

Goldridge Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley 2021

2021 Dehlinger Goldridge Pinot Noir Russian River Valley

Dehlinger’s 2021 Goldridge Pinot Noir flows with the grace of a dancer and the quiet strength of nature—elegant, poised, and deeply tied to its origins. Established in 1975 by Tom Dehlinger, the winery played a pivotal role in shaping the Russian River Valley’s character. With expertise in biochemistry and viticulture, Tom crafted winemaking into a precise integration of science and terroir.

This wine derives its vitality from the renowned Goldridge soils—ancient, sandy loams formed from uplifted marine beds, lending finesse and vibrancy. These soils, valued for their excellent drainage and mineral depth, produce fruit of exceptional purity and complexity. At Dehlinger’s estate vineyard, the vines’ deep roots draw a unique intricacy, yielding fruit with striking clarity.

Sustainably and dry-farmed, the vineyard flourishes without irrigation, cultivating resilience in the vines and authenticity in every sip. In the cellar, meticulous care prevails—grapes ferment with native yeasts and age in French oak, allowing the wine to mature while preserving its sense of place. It was the first bottle emptied at a recent tasting, a clear sign of its captivating charm and impeccable quality.

Dehlinger
Goldridge Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley 2021

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“A medium ruby color, the 2021 Pinot Noir Goldridge is highly expressive out of the gate, offering spicy and well-layered with notes of baking spice, cinnamon, dried violets, ripe raspberries, and brambly herbs. Medium-bodied, it has a great spine of acidity, a texture of fine tannins, and a long finish with a note of perfume. Drink it over the next 15 years.”

95 Points

2023 Williams Selyem Pinot Noir Sonoma County

2023 Williams Selyem Pinot Noir Sonoma County

with No Comment $60-$70Kevin VogtPinot NoirSonomaSonoma ValleyUSA

Williams Selyem

Pinot Noir 2023
Sonoma County

2023 Williams Selyem Pinot Noir Sonoma County

Williams Selyem’s 2023 Sonoma County Pinot Noir is captivating—a wine radiant with purity, vibrant energy, and a seamless depth that lingers like a cherished memory. Drawn from revered vineyards, including Rochioli Riverblock, Martaella, and the estate’s treasured parcels, it embodies the soul of Sonoma’s most celebrated terroirs in a singular, transcendent expression.

 

Williams Selyem’s story began humbly in a garage, where Burt Williams and Ed Selyem channeled their passion for Burgundy into a quiet revolution. Unable to afford the wines they revered, they crafted their own, driven by vision, necessity, and an unwavering faith in Pinot Noir’s promise on California soil. Early handshake deals with growers forged a legacy built on trust and an uncompromising standard of excellence that redefined American Pinot Noir.

 

This wine shines with remarkable clarity from the exceptional 2023 vintage—a year hailed as a modern pinnacle. Its finely etched layers, vibrant tension, and site-specific character reflect an ideal growing season and a heritage rooted in passion, precision, and place. Discover this extraordinary Pinot Noir for yourself by reserving yours today.

Williams Selyem
Pinot Noir 2023
Sonoma County

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“The Williams Selyem 2023 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir opens with supple aromas of Bing cherries, sun-ripened black raspberries, crushed cranberries, hints of warm cinnamon, forest floor, and dried herbs. On the palate, the wine has a silky smooth texture, unfolding concentrated flavors of wild red berries, cherry cola, zesty bergamot, and exotic spices. The wine has a long, luxurious finish, revealing each nuance layer of flavor with power and elegance, and destined to evolve beautifully with time in the cellar.”

95 Points

2023 Black Pine Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast

2023 Black Pine Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast

with No Comment $30 and underKevin VogtPinot NoirSonomaSonoma CoastUSA

Black Pine

Pinot Noir 2023
Sonoma Coast

2023 Black Pine Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast

Black Pine’s 2023 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir captures California fruit’s sophistication with a deft balance of depth and subtlety. It embodies the spirit of Sonoma Coast grapes—lush and sun-warmed, yet tempered by coastal winds that lend it structure and finesse. For years, Black Pine has remained a standout among value Pinot Noirs, drawing in seasoned collectors and intrigued novices alike with its consistent quality and appeal.

Drawn from a mosaic of thoughtfully chosen vineyards, this Pinot Noir reflects a winemaker’s distinct perspective. Each parcel is crafted with care, letting the unique traits of every site emerge. The outcome is a harmonious portrayal of the region—rich in layers, textured, and effortlessly refined.

The 2023 vintage achieves a subtle victory—a wine that doesn’t clamor for notice but secures it with each taste. It invites dialogue, reflection, and those fleeting moments that resonate long after. Beyond the glass, it carries a sense of connection, a gentle nudge that life’s most enduring impressions often arrive with quiet clarity.

Black Pine
Pinot Noir 2023
Sonoma Coast
Retails at: $38

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“The 2023 Black Pine Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir offers a compelling value in quality Pinot Noir. On the nose, it delivers ripe black cherries and dried cranberries, with hints of cola bean, Darjeeling tea, and violets adding floral elements. The palate brings juicy black raspberries and vibrant pomegranate, showing a ripe yet fuller-bodied profile that remains fresh and lively. A thread of liquid minerals runs through it, and the fruit intensity exceeds expectations for the price point. Well-balanced and approachable now, with a long, satisfying finish.”

93+ Points

2023 Ernest Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast

2023 Ernest Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast

with No Comment $30-$40Kevin VogtPinot NoirSonomaSonoma CoastUSA

Ernest

Pinot Noir 2023
Sonoma Coast

2023 Ernest Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast

Ernest continues to raise the bar with each vintage, and the 2023 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir may be their most impressive yet. Building on the success of the 2022—one of my top five wines of the year in 2024—the new release radiates precision, elegance, and coastal allure. Where Burgundian finesse meets the wild beauty of the Sonoma Coast, this wine delivers concentrated fruit, vivid acidity, and a striking sense of place.

Sourced from the fog-draped Freestone Valley and neighboring coastal vineyards, the wine owes its vibrancy to the region’s cool, ocean-tempered climate. Winemaker Joseph Ryan has embraced a low-intervention, site-driven approach, coaxing purity and nuance from every vintage. His attention to detail and deft touch allow the terroir to speak, with each bottling reflecting a distinct moment in time.

The 2023 Pinot Noir is the clearest expression yet of that vision. A blend of estate-grown fruit and select heritage sites, it pulses with energy—bright red berries, wild herbs, coastal salinity, all wrapped in silky tannins and a crystalline finish. At $38, it offers a rare combination of poise, purity, and pedigree—an exceptional discovery in this price tier.

Ernest
Pinot Noir 2023
Sonoma Coast

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“The 2023 Pinot Noir (Sonoma Coast) is terrific. Rich and generous in the glass, with tons of savory nuance, the 2023 is a wonderfully complete wine. Cedar, dried herbs, new leather, tobacco and incense wrap around the palate. A healthy dose of stems (33%) adds complexity, but it’s the wine’s balance I admire most.”

92 Points