2023 Kistler - Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast
2023 Kistler Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast
2023 Kistler Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast captures the cool clarity of the region, built on Kistler's longstanding devotion to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay that can stand beside Burgundy's finest. Rooted in Sonoma County, the estate emphasizes precise site selection and a hands-off cellar approach, letting vineyard character define every facet of the wine.
Terroir and Winemaking
Grapes come from heritage clones sourced from multiple small vineyard blocks along Laguna Ridge and further west into the Sonoma Coast AVA, where marine air keeps the fruit cool through the growing season. The grapes were hand harvested at night, fully destemmed, and fermented in open-top vessels, with only free-run juice collected from the tanks. The wine aged ten months in barrel before a single racking to tank, and it was bottled unfined and unfiltered.
Tasting Notes
The nose shows crushed flowers, dried herbs, red cherry, and a lift of blood orange, with a thread of white pepper running through. On the palate, savory intensity meets a firm, sinewy structure rather than pure fruit sweetness, giving the wine real presence at the table.
Food Pairings
Pairs beautifully with roasted duck, mushroom risotto, or grilled lamb.
Why this bottle stands out
- Heritage clones from Laguna Ridge and beyond lend site-driven Pinot Noir character.
- Grapes hand harvested at night, fully destemmed, and fermented in open-top vessels for gentle extraction.
- Only free-run juice is used; ten months of barrel aging precedes a single racking to tank.
- Bottled unfined and unfiltered to preserve the wine's natural expression.