| Brand | Wayfarer |
| Appellation | Fort Ross-Seaview, California, USA |
| Vintage | 2021 |
| Oak Treatment | French Oak |
| Aging | 15 months / 14.4% abv |
| Total Varietal Composition % | Pinot Noir |
Product details
Wayfarer Vineyard's 2021 Pinot Noir "The Estate" is a testament to the winery's dedication to crafting exceptional wines from their remote, 30-acre estate in the Fort Ross-Seaview AVA on the Sonoma Coast. Nestled among the rugged terrain, the vineyard benefits from Goldridge soil and a cool, maritime climate, providing an ideal environment for cultivating Pinot Noir. The 2021 vintage experienced a dry, warm growing season with consistent temperatures, allowing for even ripening and resulting in wines of remarkable intensity and harmony. Each block was hand-harvested at night to ensure optimal freshness, with 4% of the fruit reserved for whole-cluster fermentation. The remaining grapes were destemmed and underwent cold maceration before fermenting with native yeasts. The wine was then aged for 15 months in French oak barrels, 55% of which were new, enhancing its complexity and depth.
In the glass, this Pinot Noir presents a pale to medium ruby-purple hue. The nose is greeted with vibrant aromas of raspberry, tart cherry, and cassis, interwoven with floral notes of violets and hints of orange spice and fresh basil. On the palate, fine, chalky tannins and subtle undertones of crushed cacao complement the bright red fruits and floral elements. The wine's density and persistent minerality lead to a long, memorable finish. This versatile Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with dishes such as roasted duck, grilled salmon, or mushroom risotto, where its acidity and structure can enhance the flavors of the meal. While approachable now, the 2021 vintage is poised to age gracefully, rewarding those who choose to cellar it for years to come.
