Reviews & Ratings

2016 Riverbench Pinot Noir "Estate Grown"

Winery: Riverbench

Vintage: 2016

Wine Name/Vineyard: "Estate Grown"

Wine Category: Pinot Noir

Grape blend: 100% Pinot Noir

Bottle size: 750 ml

Region: Santa Maria Valley

State or country: CA

Price: $30

Cases produced: 686

KWG Score: 91 (based on 3 reviews)

Ken's Wine Rating: Very Good+ (92)

Review date: January 28, 2019

Wine Review: This bright clear red colored Pinot Noir from Riverbench did not last long. It opens with very fragrant red plum and craisin and spice bouquet. On the palate, this wine is medium bodied, balanced, smooth, silky and a like juicy. The flavor profile is an oak influenced red plum and cinnamon blend with hints of red cherry and oolong tea. The finish is dry and its flavors and gentle mild tannins are nicely prolonged. This Pinot Noir is very good and would pair perfectly with a pork tenderloin. Enjoy - Ken (SIP Certified)

Winemaker Notes: This Pinot Noir is our flagship; a way to really showcase Riverbench Vineyard. Each year, we carefully select the clones and barrel lots that will make up this bottling so that it combines the best qualities of all different parts of the property. After nine months in barrel to develop amazing complexity and deliciousness, the wine is fresh and bright, and very typical for the Santa Maria Valley. The palate boasts juicy red fruit flavors that meld nicely with a hint of our signature Riverbench smoke and clove. Try it with duck breast with pear relish or anything that involves mushrooms.

Buy it: Use 1000 Corks to find stores that sell Riverbench 2016 Estate Grown Pinot Noir.