2023 Peay Vineyards Scallop Shelf Estate Pinot Noir, West Sonoma Coast
Best Scallop Shelf to date. Bam! Need I say more? Okay, I will. The aroma is deep with sour dark cherry notes framed by floral and spice elements. Less of the typical blood orange and orange rind quality common with this cuveé and more robust fruit flavors leaning into red fruits. As the wine sits on the tongue, aromas of jasmine tea and forest floor lay a foundation under the fruit.
Despite this difference in fruit character, the wine tastes like Scallop Shelf, there just appears to be “more” of it. It is not riper, though. Just the long hang time resulted in more depth of flavor and length, more of everything except alcohol. As the wine sits on the tongue, aromas of jasmine tea and forest floor lay a foundation under the fruit. The wine is completely open for business today and is harmonious and immediately gratifying. I tasted this wine in the early morning while my palate was fresh so I could write these notes and had to tie my hand behind my back so I wouldn't keep pouring it and polish off the bottle. This is a great wine and one I will feature alongside Ama often at dinners and events in the next few years.