2014 RAEN Freestone Occidental Bodega Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

13.1% alc., 150 cases, $80 (sold in 6-packs, sold out). The winegrowers are Carlo and Dante Mondavi, fourth generation vintners born and raised in Napa Valley. RAEN stands for Research in Agriculture and Enology. 80% whole cluster inclusion, 16- day maceration, wild yeast fermentation, aged 10 months in neutral French oak barrels. Bottled without fining or filtration. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. Fruit never shows up on this very savory nose featuring aromas of underbrush, earthy flora and pine. Intensely fruity in a mid weight plus style plush with purple berry and plum flavors infused with a savory and slightly herbaceous thread in the background. The sandpaper tannins add textural interest and the finish has glorious intensity and length. The high percentage of whole cluster inclusion dominates the profile of the wine but without undue tannin. Unchanged the following day when tasted from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Score: 92. Reviewed June 18, 2016

Winery: RAEN Winery
From article: Expensive & Allocated Crimson Liquid: Are Cult Pinot Noirs Worth It?