Wines Sonoma Coast En Garde - 2017

Viniou Reviews

En Garde 2017 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir is a fine expression of cool-climate Californian Pinot. This vintage, crafted from 100% Pinot Noir grapes, showcases the varietal’s signature grace and finesse. The 2017 growing season on the Sonoma Coast was defined by a cool spring and early summer, allowing for slow and even ripening. The wine is matured in a mix of new and older French oak barrels, which lends subtle vanilla and spice notes while preserving vivid red fruit character. In the glass, expect a medium ruby color and enticing aromas of wild strawberry, raspberry, cranberry, and a touch of earthy underbrush. The palate is silky and vibrant, balancing ripe cherry fruit with hints of baking spice, rose petal, and a gentle minerality that speaks to the coastal terroir. Tannins are supple, and the finish is long and refreshing.

Sonoma Coast, straddling the Pacific edge of Sonoma County, is shaped by its fog-laden mornings and cool ocean breezes. This unique coastal influence extends the growing season and preserves ripe acidity—a hallmark of the region’s wines. The soils are diverse, featuring well-drained sandstone, clay, and loam, further adding complexity to the fruit. Sonoma Coast has grown in prestige over recent decades, known for producing some of California's most elegant and aromatic Pinot Noirs, favored by winemakers for its nuanced expression of terroir and balanced structure.

For food pairings, En Garde’s Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir excels alongside dishes offering subtlety and freshness. Classic pairings include roast duck with cherry sauce, herb-crusted pork tenderloin, or wild mushroom risotto. You might also enjoy it with salmon, seared rare, or with regional California fare like grilled quail or goat cheese crostini. The wine’s acidity and red fruit notes complement both earthy mushrooms and the sweetness of roasted poultry.

To fully appreciate its aromatic complexity and textural finesse, serve this Pinot Noir slightly cool—ideally at 14-16°C. Decanting for about 30 minutes will help open up the bouquet. This wine can be enjoyed now for its freshness or cellared for a few more years for added depth.