Rivers Marie 2018 Pinot Noir, Occidental Ridge – 96 Points

Vinous 96 Points: “The 2018 Pinot Noir Occidental Ridge Vineyard is a star among stars in this lineup. Rich, sumptuous and wonderfully deep, the 2018 exudes pedigree from the very first taste. Inky dark cherry, plum, mint, spice, and licorice all meld together in a beautifully resonant, textured Pinot built on depth. The 2018 is flat-out stunning, but it will be even better in another few years’ time.”

Winemakers Notes: “This feels like an anniversary-themed mailer as this vintage represents Summa Old turning 40 and Summa and Occidental Ridge turning 20.  This past year I’ve been thinking a lot about how the next generation will routinely be working with 50-70-year-old Pinot and Chardonnay vineyards throughout Sonoma Coast.  I have to admit that makes me a little jealous as I do believe vine age makes a tremendous difference with those two varietals.  We are just beginning to see it with Occidental Ridge and the regular Summa bottlings as the consistent excellence of these two sites shine through in diverse vintages.  Occidental Ridge, in particular, continues to ratchet up its intensity level while preserving the cool fresh fruit character and naturally high acidity that has become its hallmarks.  There’s more of everything here but all in equal proportion.  Pennyroyal mint and pine needles contribute a savory edge to complement the mostly black fruits of the vintage.  There is once again a 10% whole cluster addition that adds texture and cut to the mid-palate.”