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.
Magenta in color. 14.1% ABV. The 2012 was made from a handful of sites and includes deselected barrels of Silver Eagle. The nose on the wine is all about red fruits and citrus. Great weight and mouthfeel. Strong acidity. Flavors of strawberry, blood orange, pine needle and cranberry. The finish is long and spicy. Drink over the next 2-4 years.
My rating: 92 points.
Consistent with my reviews for the 2010 and 2011 versions.
This wine is only $25 and is undoubtedly the best Pinot Noir for the price in all of California. In fact it might be the best $25 domestic wine period.
Rivers-Marie wines are only available via their mailing list. The 2013 version of this wine will be released next Spring.
I’ve blogged about Rivers-Marie previously in Zinfandel Chronicles Power Rankings.
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Does this need any air at this point in time?
Steve, I think it clearly needs an hour or so in a decanter but better yet another year or two in the cellar.
Have only had RM once but loved it. Patiently waiting to get on the mailing list!
I just bought a 2012 Summa Pinot Noir. What’s your experience aging this one? How long should I wait? Was very happy to see an importer bring it up here.
5-7 years from the vintage. I only have a single bottle of ’12 Summa so thinking 2017 or so.
2012 Summa — either drink now or 3-5 yrs. Summa Old starts at 5 yrs from vintage
From the source! Thanks Will.