Cline 2021 Pinot Noir Fog Swept Sonoma Coast

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Description

Cline’s 2021 Fog Swept Pinot Noir is a cool-coastal-style Pinot from the Sonoma Coast, showing juicy red and black cherry, wild strawberry, and earthy minerality, wrapped in moderate oak. It has firm tannins and a slightly lean palate, making it a more food-friendly and somewhat rustic Pinot rather than ultra-silky. A solid value for Sonoma Coast fans seeking freshness and character. Key Specs & Background Feature Detail Producer Cline Cellars Vintage 2021 Appellation Sonoma Coast, California, USA Varietal Pinot Noir Alcohol Content ~14.0% ABV  Oak Aging Aged ~10 months in about 35% new French oak barrels.  Tasting Profile Aspect Notes Aroma / Nose Aromas of dark plums, oak spices such as cloves, and maybe a hint of mushroom or forest-floor earth. Also wild strawberry and black cherry appear.  Palate / Taste The palate shows juicy fruit (black cherry, wild strawberry), red cherry & cranberry, with earthy undertones like mushroom / leaf, some bittersweet chocolate or black tea hints.  Texture & Tannins Medium-bodied; tannins are firm and drying, giving a bit of structure. Acidity is noticeable, helping give snap and lift.  Finish The finish is decent length, with the fruit fading gradually into earth and oak spice; perhaps a bit leaner on the tail compared to richer Pinots.  Critic Score & Reviews Wine Enthusiast gave it 88 points.  Flavor note from Wine Enthusiast (Jim Gordon): “Oak spices, dark plums and cloves fill the aroma... before a snappy, rather lean palate reveals cranberries, sour cherries and earthy notes. The tannins are firm and drying, so it's not a light wine.”  Vivino average: ~ 4.0 / 5 from ~80+ ratings.  What Makes It Special The “Fog Swept” name reflects its Sonoma Coast climate: frequent fog, cool summer temperatures, large diurnal shifts. These conditions help preserve acidity, freshness and prevent over-ripening.  Moderate use of oak (35% new French oak) gives structure and spice without overwhelming the varietal’s fruit and earth character.  It leans toward a classic, more restrained style rather than ultra-rich or heavily oaked Pinot—good for people who prefer “taste of place” and moderate weight. Strengths & Things to Consider Strengths: Excellent value for Sonoma Coast Pinot with solid fruit + character.  Works well with food due to its acidity and firm tannins—pairs nicely with lighter meats, mushrooms, poultry, etc. Captures the cooler coastal style well; fans of earthy, herbal, cherry-driven Pinot will appreciate. Serving & Pairing Suggestions Serve at about 55-60°F (13-15°C) to preserve freshness and bring out aromatics. Use Burgundy-style glassware for best expression. If possible, decant 20-30 minutes to let oak and earth notes settle and fruit open. Food Pairings: Roast chicken with herbs Grilled salmon or lighter red meats Mushroom risotto or pasta with earthy mushrooms Duck breast with cherry or berry sauce Soft cheeses ( Brie, Camembert ) or aged goat’s cheese

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