"Many of America’s great Pinot Noirs are vineyard- or block designate wines (specifying the source). These allow winemakers to celebrate a particular set of growing conditions that make for a unique wine that stands alone as a snapshot in time- a picture of a vintage and a very particular place. “
2022 Estate Field Selections Pinot Noir Mendocino Ridge 95 Pts
"Field Selections offers a deeper, earthier expression of the estate, sourced from the best barrels of only three blocks of vines planted in soils with higher clay content and shale components. The soils and the proximity to the ocean—just 3 miles away—lend a subtle minerality to the wine. Expect notes of fir tips and Christmas tree-like aromas, mushrooms, and dried herbs. The wine delivers an electric mouthfeel with vibrant acidity on the palate, characteristic of the estate’s unique terroir. The ocean’s influence helps keep the climate in check, allowing for a perfect balance of freshness and depth. However, it can make winemaking a bit challenging at times—such was the case with the 2022 vintage, which resulted in lower yields and a smaller production."
Clive Pursehouse- Decanter - North American Editor