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. Rivers-Marie also does several single vineyard Cabernets and a Chardonnay. In addition to making his own wine, Thomas serves as a consultant for a number of wineries including Schrader, Outpost and Black Sears.
The 2010 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir is comprised of fruit from Silver Eagle, Willow Creek, Riddle Ranch and Lancel Creek Vineyards.
Surprisingly dark in color. 14.1% ABV. Red fruits, forest floor and truffles on the nose. Cranberry, pomegranate, black cherry, spearmint and menthol on the palate. Mouth watering acidity. Great texture and mouth feel. The finish is long and supple. Drink over the next couple years while you wait on the single vineyard bottlings.
For my money the single best $25 domestic Pinot Noir.
My rating: 92 points.
Rivers-Marie wines are only available via their mailing list.
I’ve blogged about Rivers-Marie previously in Zinfandel Chronicles Power Rankings.
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