Thomas Rivers Brown and his wife Genevieve Marie Walsh have quickly made Rivers-Marie one of California’s most sought after Pinot Noir labels. The winery was founded in 2002 and the first release was the Rivers-Marie Summa Vineyard Pinot Noir. Other Pinot Noirs from Rivers-Marie include the Silver Eagle, Gioia and Occidental Ridge. Rivers-Marie also does several single vineyard Cabernets and a Chardonnay. Thomas Rivers Brown also consults for a number of wineries including Schrader, Outpost and Black Sears.
Occidental Ridge Vineyard is situated on a wind-swept, sun drenched promontory above the little town of Occidental on the Sonoma Coast. The vineyard is a fruit source for both Rivers-Marie and Failla.
Ruby red in color. Spice, cranberries and sandalwood on the nose. Black cherry, asian spice, earth, mushroom, pine needles, pomegranate and raspberries on the palate. The finish is exceptionally long and spicy. Great acidity. This wine will age well for another 3-5 years. I am going to make every effort to save my 2006 Summa Old Vines until it is 10 years old.
My rating: 93 points.
The wine is only available via the mailing list. This one is worth the wait.
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