La Crema Monterey Pinot Noir 2022

Drink it now or cellar for up to 15 years. No need to decant, but best to open it half an hour before service.

Founded in 1979, La Crema (whose original name, La Crema Vinera, translates to "the best of the vineyard" in Latin) is a family-owned winery that focuses its winemaking on cool-climate appellations, including the Russian River Valley, Monterey, and now the Willamette Valley. Since 1993, La Crema has been owned by Jess Jackson and Barbara Banke, founders of Jackson Family Wines, and the winery is now led by winemaker Craig McAllister, who combines traditional techniques with a modern approach and a particular attention to the individuality of the vineyards.

After harvesting and a brief cold maceration, fermentation occurs in stainless steel tanks, and the finished wine then ages for 5 months in French oak barrels (18% of which are new). The careful vinification and the delicate use of wood make it a harmonious and balanced wine, in which toasted notes perfectly complement the fresh, fruity character of Pinot Noir.

On the nose, the wine reveals a broad aromatic profile with initial notes of strawberry and ripe raspberry, plum, and rhubarb jam, followed by earthy and tobacco hints. On the palate, it is rich, supple, and juicy, with a silky texture and a lively fruity freshness. The tannins are fine and well-integrated, and the finish is slightly spicy. It is the ideal wine for duck, roast turkey, and mushroom risotto.