Wines Sonoma Coast Fulcrum - Pinot Noir - 2023

Viniou Reviews

The 2023 Fulcrum Pinot Noir from Sonoma Coast embodies the elegance and depth for which this esteemed varietal is celebrated. Crafted exclusively from Pinot Noir grapes, the wine reveals a beautiful crimson hue in the glass and opens with tantalizing aromas of wild strawberries, freshly crushed raspberries, and delicate notes of violets. A subtle hint of forest floor and spice underscores its cool climate origins, while the palate is vibrant and refined, showing lively red cherry, cranberry, and a gentle touch of oak-derived vanilla and clove. The structure is supple, the tannins silky, and the finish persists with finesse, reflecting careful vinification and attentive maturation in French oak barrels.

Sonoma Coast, one of California’s most acclaimed AVAs, enjoys a unique setting influenced by the proximity to the Pacific Ocean. The region’s cool, fog-laden mornings and sunny, temperate afternoons foster a slow, even ripening of Pinot Noir, permitting the grapes to reach optimal maturity while maintaining lively acidity and a delicate aromatic profile. The soils here are typically a mix of Goldridge sandy loam and clay, which contribute to the wine’s minerality and finesse. Sonoma’s viticultural history stretches back to the early 19th century, and it is now a benchmark for world-class cool-climate Pinot Noir production, rivaling that of Burgundy.

Fulcrum’s Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with a selection of classic and regional dishes. Its bright acidity and silky texture make it a natural companion to grilled salmon, roast duck with cherry sauce, or herb-encrusted pork loin. Mushroom risotto or a medley of roasted root vegetables also harmonize with the wine’s earthier notes. To explore the marriage of flavors further, consider local California cheeses like Cowgirl Creamery’s Mt. Tam.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this Pinot Noir slightly chilled at 14-16°C. Decanting for thirty minutes before serving will help unlock its bouquet and allow the nuanced flavors to shine through. This wine promises immediate pleasure and the potential to develop added complexity if cellared for a few years.