Wayfarer Vineyard, located on the remote Sonoma Coast, was planted by David Abreu in 2002. In 2005, Jayson Pahlymeyer started blending Wayfarer Pinot Noir and Chardonnay with fruit from Russian River Vineyards and bottling it under the Pahlmeyer label. By 2012, the vineyard’s exceptional fruit presented an irrefutable case for a namesake label. Jayson’s daughter, Cleo Pahlmeyer, runs the estate and Bibiana González Rave is in charge of winemaking.
Crimson in color. 14.5% ABV. Stunning nose of red fruits, roses and damp forest floor. Medium body with perfect acidity. Silky and sophisticated on the palate. Flavors of black cherry, cranberry, cola and cloves. The finish is exceptionally long. This is a Pinot Noir of grace and finesse. Absolutely gorgeous. Sonoma Coast at it’s best. Drink over the next 5-8 years.
My rating: 95 points
There is much to like here. Great people, exceptional wines and an impeccable vineyard. I’ll be looking to add future vintages of Wayfarer to my wine cellar. The 2014 Golden Mean will be released later this year.
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