Garry Farrell Terra de Promissio Vineyard, Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir 2019 (Petaluma Gap) - The name of this vineyard means “Land of Promise.” Winemaker Heredia describes the small Petaluma Gap AVA in this fashion; “The Petaluma Gap stands out as pretty unique when compared to other wine growing regions in the Sonoma Coast. The Petaluma Wind Gap is a cold, very windy growing region that creates wines with power, concentration, excellent acidity, and bold structure.” Specifically regarding the Terra de Promissio site, she remarks, “the wines are red fruit-driven and earthy, sometimes with hints of tobacco or leather, but always offers lots of citrus, dried herbs and floral notes. The tannin structure has a strong presence but acts as a subtle framework and is always nicely in balance with all other characteristics.”

I found the wine to be a remarkable Pinot Noir with tremendous complexity, offering a heightened sense of place. Bright, medium deep garnet; captivating aromas of Queen Anne Cherry, Damson plum, strawberry syrup and hints of clove and fennel. Medium-full with impressive concentration of very bright fruit, this has an elegant entry on the palate, the medium-full tannins are well-rounded and have a delicate feel; there is very good acidity, and the oak notes, which are present, do not overpower, but add an appealing sweetness to the sweetness to the wine, as do the exotic Asian spice notes and orange rind notes in the finish.

Offering exceptional harmony as well as beautiful varietal purity, this is a classy and charming Pinot Noir that is all about allure and charisma; if this were a movie star, you’d ask for an autograph. Enjoy tonight – it will be especially pleasing with duck breast with cherry sauce or pork roast with orange sauce – or try it 10-12 years down the road. Marvelous! (95, $75, and worth every penny!)

Tom Hyland, Contributor, Forbes