The Data

Country   USA

Appellation   Sonoma Coast

Varietal   Pinot Noir

Retail Price   $28

ABV   13.9%

Score   4 Stars/93 points

In the Glass

Brilliant, medium ruby color.

The aromatics are intense, offering scents of raspberry, red cherry, and red grapefruit zest with supporting notes of pomegranate and wet stones.

The palate echoes the nose delivering a red fruit-driven core with flavors of ripe strawberry, cranberry, elderberry, orange peel, and slate. The finish is long and lingering.

Medium-bodied and perfectly balanced with a supple yet vibrant texture.

Cool Factor

A beautiful and complex Rosé of Pinot Noir made by one of Napa’s most experienced and accomplished winemakers is always cool.

Value Grade

Selling at $28 a bottle, this lovely Rosé won't be found in the bargain bin. However, it is delicious, perfect, and ultra rare with just 50 cases produced.

Analysis

This is our first look at a wine from Calafia Cellars, and it did not disappoint. Their charming Rosé of Pinot Noir is vibrant and complex, true to the varietal. The grapes for this year’s Rosé were sourced from vineyards in Sonoma Coast (primary source), Russian River Valley, and Anderson Valley in Mendocino. This wine is made using the saignée method—a winemaking technique that involves bleeding off a portion of juice after brief skin contact, in this case, approximately six to eight hours of skin contact. The wine was fermented and rested in stainless steel to retain freshness and accentuate its beautiful fruit characteristics. We love the natural acidity found in this wine and how it seamlessly marries with the red berry and citrus fruit. Get this wine while it lasts, as just 50 cases were made.

How to Enjoy

Like most rosé wines, this one needs nothing more than a glass. Serve it chilled during happy hour, perhaps with light appetizers.