Rivers-Marie

Articles About Rivers-Marie

Reviewed Wines

2019 Rivers-Marie Occidental Ridge Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., 250 cases, $60. Cellared and bottled by Rivers-Marie Wines, Calistoga, CA. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. There is quite a bit of oak embellishment on the nose and palate initially but the wine finds its balance by the following day when it sheds its barrel cloak and becomes stunning. Bright aromas of black cherry and blueberry dance with exotic spices and rose petal. Discreetly concentrated in a mid-weight style with provocative flavors of black cherry and blueberry-pomegranate that offer considerable midpalate length. Seductive silkiness and elegance, with modest, well-ripened, fine-grain tannins and a glorious finish that merges fruit and oak seamlessly. The best Pinot Noir beyond Summa Old Vines that I have ever tasted from winemaker Thomas Brown and one that will bring you closer to God. Score: 96. Reviewed April 10, 2021 ARTICLE »

2019 Rivers-Marie Occidental Ridge Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., $60. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. The nose takes time to open, offering plenty of bright cherry, exotic spice and rose petal aromas. A discreetly concentrated style, with elegantly-composed flavors of cherry and blueberry kissed with oak. This wine is heavily invested in oak initially, but by the following day day when sampled from a previously opened bottle, the wine was singing on all high notes with only a whisper of oak and finished with fruit-laden, memorable goodness. This beauty needs a little time in the cellar. Score: 95. Reviewed August 1, 2021 ARTICLE »

2019 Rivers-Marie Summa Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.6% alc., $60. · Medium garnet color in the glass. The nose is initially heavily imbued with oak-driven toast and mocha java aromas. On the palate, the oak-dusted dark fruits are invigorated with good natural acidity and supported by gentle tannins. There is a coffee and tobacco flavor that supersedes the fruit. When tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, some of the oak on the nose and palate had shed and the wine was considerably more charming. The finish was particularly long. Very young when tasted, this wine should achieve better oak integration with a year or two in the cellar. Score: 92. Reviewed August 1, 2021 ARTICLE »

2019 Rivers-Marie Summa Old Vines Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.4% alc., $85. · Medium garnet color in the glass. The nose offers pleasing array of darker berry and stone fruit aromas with noticeable oak rising up. Noticeably complex and suave on the palate in a mid-weight style, featuring flavors of nicely ripened red cherry, raspberry and pomegranate. Very sleek in mouthfeel and quite giving, with very fine tannins and good acidity. There is a touch of oak but it is not as prominent as in the Young Vines bottling. This wine is like an elderly man dressed in a suit in that it demands respect and exudes ages of experience. When tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, the wine has largely shed its oak cloak and became very enticing. Score: 94. Reviewed August 1, 2021 ARTICLE »

2018 Rivers-Marie Summa Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., 325 cases, $60. Harvest Brix 23.1º. This “Baby Summa” comes from 20-year-old vines. Thomas feels this wine becomes more like the Old Vines bottling every year. For me, it is an excellent wine but relies a little bit more on fruit impact and less on complexity than the Old Vines Summa. · Dark garnet color in the glass. Highly expressive nose, offering scents of dark pie cherries, black raspberries, plum and a hint of vanilla and toast. Mid-weight plus in concentration, offering a charge of black cherry fruit that saturates the palate and holds up in generosity through an extended finish. A little more oak shows up on the nose and palate but dissipates with swirling. Gracious tannins make for easy approachability. Still fine when sampled the following day from a previously opened bottle. Score: 93. Reviewed May 25, 2020 ARTICLE »

2018 Rivers-Marie Summa Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., 325 cases, $60. This “Baby Summa” comes from 20-year-old vines. the wine relies more on fruit impact and less on complexity than the Old Vines Summa. · Dark garnet color in the glass. Highly expressive nose, offering scents of dark pie cherries, black raspberries, plum and a hint of vanilla and toast. Mid-weight in concentration, offering a charge of black cherry fruit that saturates the palate and holds up in generosity through an extended finish. Gracious tannins make for easy approachability. Reviewed May 2020. Score: 93. Reviewed August 1, 2021 ARTICLE »

2018 Rivers-Marie Summa Old Vines Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

13.3% alc., 210 cases, $80. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. The enticing nose is a wonderland of aromas that include cherry, spice, forest floor, and pine needle. The dreamy texture makes an impression immediately. Very enjoyable upon opening in a light- to mid-weight style featuring a core of well-spiced redder fruits. A stellar wine with engaging freshness and gossamer tannins, finishing unusually long. There is something special about this wine that is hard to put into words. The wine is more about complexity and breeding than brute sap. This beauty has the balance to age for many years and will surely bring many “oohs and ahas” down the line. Still magnificent when tasted thew following day from a previously opened bottle. Score: 95. Reviewed August 1, 2021 ARTICLE »

2018 Rivers-Marie Summa Vineyard Old Vines Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

13.3% alc., 210 cases, $80. Harvest Brix 23.8º. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. The enticing nose is a wonderland of aromas including cherry, spice, forest floor, and pine needles. The dreamy texture makes an impression immediately. Very enjoyable upon opening in a light to mid-weight style featuring a core of well-spiced redder fruits. A stellar wine with engaging freshness and gossamer tannins, finishing unusually long. There is something about this wine that is hard to put into words but you know it is special. Perhaps it is the fact that it offers complexity rather than brute sap. Most certainly, it is the forty-year-old vines speaking. In any case, this beauty has the balance to age for many years and I am sure it will bring many oohs and aah down the line. Still magnificent when tasted the following day from a previously opened bottle. Score: 95. Reviewed May 25, 2020 ARTICLE »

2018 Rivers-Marie Summa Vineyard Old Vines Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

13.3% alc., 210 cases, $80. Harvest Brix 23.8º. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. The enticing hose is a wonderland of aromas including cherry, spice, forest floor and pine needles. The dreamy texture makes an impression immediately. Very enjoyable upon opening in a light to mid-weight style featuring a core of well-spiced redder fruits. A stellar wine with engaging freshness and gossamer tannins, finishing unusually long. There is something about this wine that is hard to put into words but you know it is special. Perhaps it is the fact that it offers complexity rather than brute sap. Most certainly, it is the forty-year-old vines speaking. In any case, this beauty has the balance to age for many years and I am sure will brings many oohs and ahas down the line. Still magnificent when tasted the following day from a previous opened bottle. Score: 95. Reviewed August 27, 2020 ARTICLE »

2017 Rivers-Marie Occidental Ridge Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

13.8% alc., 240 cases, $50. Some whole cluster inclusion. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Very engaging aromas of blackest cherry, cola and dark red rose petal. A sleek array of dark red and black stone and berry fruits offer considerable pleasure and excellent energy. Mid-weight in extraction, with tender tannins, a shadow of nutty oak, and a seductively silken mouthfeel. When tasted the following day from a previously opened and recorked bottle, the composure was exquisite and the finish gained even more length. Reviewed May 2019. Score: 94. Reviewed August 1, 2021 ARTICLE »

2017 Rivers-Marie Bearwallow Vineyard Anderson Valley Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., 260 cases, $60. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Black cherry aromas dominate the inviting nose with added scents of orange peel and vanilla. Impeccably balanced with good vigor, offering mid weight flavors of black cherry, dark chocolate and nutty oak. Some, but not imposing tannins, and a lasting finish. Close to 94. Score: 93. Reviewed May 3, 2019 ARTICLE »

2017 Rivers-Marie Occidental Ridge Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

13.8% alc., 240 cases, $60. Some whole cluster inclusion. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Very engaging aromas of blackest cherry, cola and dark rose petal. A sleek array of dark red and black stone and berry fruits offer considerable pleasure and excellent energy. Mid weight in extraction, with tender tannins, a hint of nutty oak and a seductively silky mouthfeel. When tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, the composure was exquisite and the finish gained even more length. Score: 94. Reviewed May 3, 2019 ARTICLE »

2017 Rivers-Marie Platt Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

13.1% alc., $60. Inaugural vintage from this vineyard. Calera selection. · Dark garnet color in the glass. Appealing aromas of black cherry, fertile soil and rose petal. Juicy and quenching, with a discretely concentrated core of black raspberry and pomegranate fruit. Suave in the mouth, with plenty of acidic verve, finishing long with intense dark raspberry fruit delight. Even more appealing the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle sporting evocative fruit and a gorgeous, lively, and even more flamboyant finish. Score: 94. Reviewed May 3, 2019 ARTICLE »

2017 Rivers-Marie Silver Eagle Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.4% alc., 300 cases, $60. 15% whole cluster. Addition of Swan selection in this year’s bottling and deletion of clone “828.” · Dark garnet color in the glass. The nose is filled with the scents of black grapes, black plum and blackberries. The biggest and ripest fruited wine in the lineup, with a charge of dark berry fruits and a hint of raisin, underlain with a thread of oak. Silken in texture, with integrated tannins and an oak-infused, but satisfying finish. Only California could produce a flood of Pinot fruit like this. A little too ponderous and ripe for my personal taste. Score: 92. Reviewed May 3, 2019 ARTICLE »

2017 Rivers-Marie Summa Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., 300 cases, $60. A Rivers-Marie estate vineyard. · Dark garnet color in the glass. Mildly reserved aromas of sous-bois, black raspberry and blueberry fruits. Lighter in weight than the Old Vine Summa bottling, but with a vivacious and engaging core of dark red fruits and spice. Seamless, with lithe tannins, welcome acidity, and a caressing texture. The wine gains appeal over time in the glass. An excellent, giving wine now that has the balance to age nicely, but lacks the concentration and finish of the Old Vine Summa bottling. Score: 93. Reviewed May 3, 2019 ARTICLE »

2017 Rivers-Marie Summa Old Vines Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

13.1% alc., 180 cases, $80. Moving into the 40th year of these vines. · Dark garnet color in the glass. Provocative aromas of purple grape, boysenberry and plum. Amazing fruit concentration in a full-bodied style offering an array of black fruit and intriguing spice flavors that fan out on the palate with vigor. Similar to a Pinot Noir grape reduction sauce, but infused with good natural acidity and not compotey. Great harmony with a balancing grip of tannin, and a very long and extremely intense finish. The wine gains respect when tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. An old vine treasure that has a special aura that defies proper description. Score: 96. Reviewed May 3, 2019 ARTICLE »

2017 Rivers-Marie Summa Old Vines Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

13.1% alc., 180 cases, $80. · Dark garnet color in the glass. Provocative aromas of purple grape, boysenberry, and plum. Amazing fruit concentration in a full-bodied style offering an array of black fruit and intriguing spice flavors that fan out on the palate with vigor. Similar to a Pinot Noir grape reduction sauce but infused with good natural acidity and not a compote. Great harmony with a balancing grip of tannin, and a very long and extremely intense finish. An old vine treasure that has a special aura that defies proper description. Reviewed May 2019. Score: 96. Reviewed August 1, 2021 ARTICLE »

2015 Rivers-Marie Kanzler Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., 130 cases, $50. The last vintage of Kanzler Vineyard as the family is retaining a little more of their estate fruit to help build their own label. Whole cluster percentage was increased to balance the abundant dark fruit. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Aromas of black cherry, grape pomice, spice and nutty oak are attractive. Rather luscious and bold mid weight plus flavors of blueberry, boysenberry, black berry, plum and spice are underlain with noticeable barrel work. Good natural acidity provides vibrancy, the fruit tannins are well integrated, and the finish is soothing. This wine developed more Pinot grace over time in the glass. Score: 93. Reviewed March 29, 2017 ARTICLE »

2015 Rivers-Marie Occidental Ridge Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., 110 cases, $50. · Dark reddish purple color in the glass. The nose is rather muted and primary, offering delicate aromas of ripe dark fruits and spice. Extremely sappy in a kinky way, but not jammy, with a full-bodied core of sweet, teeth-staining ollaliberry and blackberry goodness. Noticeable, but engaging tannins, enough natural acidity for juiciness, with an intensely fruity and explosive finish. Typical of this vineyard (see tasting of older vintages) but with heightened concentration in this vintage. Score: 92. Reviewed March 29, 2017 ARTICLE »

2015 Rivers-Marie Silver Eagle Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., 200 cases, $50. Vineyard is farmed by Ulises Valdez. Primarily Vosne-Romanee and Calera clones. Some added whole cluster in this vintage. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. The nose is largely oak-driven with aromas of coffee and roasted nuts initially, slowly revealing black fruit flavors. Rich and sappy in the mouth, with flavors of blackberry, cassis and Hoison sauce with a noticeable play of oak in the background. Fruit driven, with nicely balanced tannins, and a pleasing but not extraordinary finish. Little nuance, but offers an irresistible opulence. Score: 92. Reviewed March 29, 2017 ARTICLE »

2015 Rivers-Marie Bearwallow Vineyard Anderson Valley Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., 120 cases, $60. Located in the deep end of the Anderson Valley and sourced from blocks planted by owner Kevin Harvey of Rhys Vineyards. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. This wine is quite tight both on the nose and palate and reveals the most tannin of the 2015 wines tasted here. There is some tasteful purple and black fruit trying to emerge, but the oak and tannin dominate. Considerably better when tasted two days later from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, with a more engaging perfume and better tannin integration and harmony. Score this one largely on future potential. Score: 91. Reviewed March 29, 2017 ARTICLE »

2015 Rivers-Marie Summa Old Vines Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

13.3% alc., 70 cases, $75. 1.25 tons off of 1.75 acres. Aged in 100% new French oak barrels. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. The nose is initially replete with aromas of woodland, smoke, smoldering embers, grilled mushroom and spice, presumably due to 100% new oak still relatively soon after bottling. When tasted two days later from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, the oak was more subdued and the sexy fruit aromas were beginning to arrive. Much better on the palate with a mid weight core of charming black cherry and black raspberry flavors. Very silky in the mouth, with gentle tannins. Not as sappy as the other 2015 Rivers-Marie wines and thereby more sophisticated and alluring. This wine definitely needs a few years in the cellar and will reward your patience. It will turn out to be the best wine in the 2015 lineup. Score: 94. Reviewed March 29, 2017 ARTICLE »

2013 Rivers-Marie Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., $25. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. Aromatically pleasing with scents of dark fruits, sous-bois and complimentary oak. Rich and sappy flavors of blackberry, cassis and pomegranate with a touch of spice. A generous, juicy wine without subtlety, but with suave tannins, easy approachability and a tenacious finish. Score: 89. Reviewed May 14, 2015 ARTICLE »

2013 Rivers-Marie Gioia Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., $50. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Aromas of black cherry, mulch and green garden. More appealing on the palate, with flavors of spicy black cherry, purple berries, plum, dark chocolate and oak with a savory herbal vein in the background. The wine offers a good attack and fruit tenacity in the mouth but lacks some length and intensity on the finish. More polish than the Sonoma Coast bottling and shows a deft touch of oak. Overall, the wine wants for inspiration. It was tasted a day and two days after opening and remained unchanged. Score: 89. Reviewed May 14, 2015 ARTICLE »

2013 Rivers-Marie Kanzler Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., $50. · Moderate reddish purple hue in the glass. This is a striking wine that stands out in this vintage. The nose offers bright aromas of blackberry jam, potpourri, violets and smoky oak. Lovely fruit presence in a mid weight plus style that offers impressive harmony. The purple and black berry flavors are complimented by a hint of smoky oak and show expansive power in the mouth and on the finish. Score: 93. Reviewed May 14, 2015 ARTICLE »

2013 Rivers-Marie Occidental Ridge Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., $50. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. The best nose in this 2013 lineup of Rivers-Marie Pinot Noirs, sporting effusive aromas of black cherry tart, spice and underbrush. Sweet, sappy flavors of boysenberry, blackberry and pomegranate explode on the palate in this bold and luscious wine. Despite its richness, the wine is slick and refined, with balanced tannins and a very long finish. An angelic fruit bomb. Score: 92. Reviewed May 14, 2015 ARTICLE »

2013 Rivers-Marie Silver Eagle Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., $50. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Brooding nose that reluctantly gives up shy aromas of dark stone and berry fruits over time in the glass. Plenty of fruit load, but light on its feat, featuring purple and black fruits with a hint of dark chocolate and cola. Polished tannins and admirable oak integration, finishing with some generosity. When tasted a day later from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, the aromas were more uplifting and the wine was more open and expressive. Score: 92. Reviewed May 14, 2015 ARTICLE »

2013 Rivers-Marie Summa Old Vines Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

13.3% alc., $75. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. The aromas and flavors of cherry, cranberry relish, dried herbs, sandalwood and pine sap are quite appealing. A charming wine that fills the mouth with fruit goodness, and recedes very smoothly on the finish which has good grip and length. Not a blockbuster, and not the best Summa Old Vines I have had, but a very suave wine that satisfies. Score: 92. Reviewed May 14, 2015 ARTICLE »

2012 Rivers-Marie Gioia Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., 212 cases, $50. Clone 115 and Pommard. 33% new oak. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. This wine comes at you with darker fruits and a more earthy pretense. Aromas of blackberries, black grape, dark chocolate, briar, oak spice and a hint of pine resin. Very accommodating flavors of dark red and purple fruits with an earthy underpinning. Very juicy with a lip-smacking finish. Deeper, denser and modestly tannic with oak in the background. This is the most brooding wine in the lineup at present. Score: 91. Reviewed April 19, 2014 ARTICLE »

2012 Rivers-Marie Kanzler Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., 200 cases, $50. Inaugural bottling from this vineyard. Clones 115, 667 and Pommard. · The outlier in that it is clearly different from the other wines in the 2012 lineup. Moderately dark reddish purple hue in the glass. The nose has a vivid aroma of black raspberries and black cherries with oak-driven espresso highlights. This wine displays a riper profile, and has more concentrated sap, but is not jammy. The core of dark stone and berry fruits are nicely spiced and there is a hint of cola and sassafras peaking out. The tannins are silky and the finish is flush with black cherry goodness. The finish really stands out for its generosity and length. I love the sweet fruit and oak interplay in this wine. Score: 94. Reviewed April 19, 2014 ARTICLE »

2012 Rivers-Marie Occidental Ridge Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

13.8% alc., 325 cases, $50. Clones 115, 667 and 777. The warmest site, yet also the most acidic. Small amount of whole cluster inclusion. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. The expressive nose reaches more heights over time in the glass to reveal aromas of cherry, raspberry coulis, sandalwood and earth notes. Clean and silky on the palate with mid weight flavors of red cherries and berries, picking up weight over time in the glass. Well-crafted and very pleasant with a good cut of acidity and a charming cherry-infused finish. The most feminine wine in the lineup. Score: 93. Reviewed April 19, 2014 ARTICLE »

2012 Rivers-Marie Silver Eagle Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., 350 cases, $50. 10% whole cluster inclusion. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. Interesting nose with an array of quirky aromas including citrus, cedary oak, stainless and jerky complimented the mixed dark fruit. Much more traditional on the palate with moderately rich flavors of juicy dark red cherries and berries that really grab on and hold through a lengthy finish that has considerable textural interest. Still tight, and the nose is a bit awkward, but this wine leaves you wanting more. Look to the future. Score: 90. Reviewed April 19, 2014 ARTICLE »

2012 Rivers-Marie Summa Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

13.6% alc., 450 cases, $50. Vineyard dry farmed for the first time ever. · Moderately deep reddish purple color in the glass. A sexy nose of black cherry, spice, root beer, toasty oak and iron and is a chameleon in the glass. Middleweight, refined flavors of dark red cherries and berries that expand in the mouth and leave an impression on the glorious finish. Suave tannins, juicy acidity and a judicious touch of oak add charm to the experience. This beauty leaves a lingering message of spiced plum and raspberry on the finish. Score: 94. Reviewed April 19, 2014 ARTICLE »

2012 Rivers-Marie Summa Old Vines Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

13.3% alc., 275 cases, $75. · Moderately dark, very pretty garnet color in the glass. The aromas pull you into the glass with a fascinating array of scents including dark berry coulis, forest floor, molasses and even pulled pork. A delicious onslaught of dark plum and black raspberry fruit engages the palate with hints of earthy goodness and exotic spices. This wine has an exceptional presence on the palate. Beautifully composed, with supple, balanced tannins and integrated acidity, finishing with length and aplomb. An argument for old vines. Wines like this make you want to go to church to give thanks. Score: 97. Reviewed April 19, 2014 ARTICLE »

2011 Rivers-Marie Occidental Ridge Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

12.8% alc., 160 cases, $45. One of the lightest wines in 2011. Aged in 33% new French oak barrels. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Shy and not particularly appealing with aromas of red and blue berries, apple and green beans. The red fruit flavors trump the nose but the wine is still rather shallow from entry through the finish, and noticeably less concentrated and ripe than the 2010 vintage. There is an appealing finesse and elegance on display, but the crisp acidity overwhelms the meager fruit. Slightly better the next day from a previously opened and recorked bottle. Good. Reviewed May 5, 2013 ARTICLE »

2011 Rivers-Marie Gioia Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

13.0% alc., 143 cases, $50. Clone 113 and Pommard. Located in proximity to Summa Vineyard. Aged in 50% new French oak barrels. · Moderate reddish-purple color in the glass. Aromas of black cherries, raspberries, forest floor, moss and graham. Very tasty with a vibrant core of cherry and red berry fruit accented by notes of sassafras and Asian 5-spice. Presents a charming elegance with supple tannins and a refreshing finish. Not as big and boisterous as the 2010 vintage, but the similarities between the two vintages are evident, and the wine is quite charming in its own right. Very good. Looking forward to trying the 2012 vintage from this vineyard. Reviewed May 5, 2013 ARTICLE »

2011 Rivers-Marie Silver Eagle Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., 225 cases, $50. The vineyard’s location in the northeastern part of Occidental allowed it to achieve full maturity before the rains and it shows in this wine. Aged in 40% new French oak barrels. · Medium reddish-purple color in the glass. Nicely perfumed with bright aromas of dark raspberry jam, pine and spice. Soft in the mouth with mid weight flavors of black raspberries, black plums and mocha. The most concentrated wine in the 2011 lineup, with tenacious fruit that seeks out every corner of the mouth, finishing with impressive persistence. Even better later in the day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Very good. Reviewed May 5, 2013 ARTICLE »

2011 Rivers-Marie Summa Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

12.8% alc., 204 cases, $50. A combination of all blocks at Summa Vineyard. Aged in 75% new French oak barrels. · Light reddish-purple color in the glass. Red fruited on the nose and palate showing its usual spice and orange peel highlights, but offering an uncharacteristic and curious savory and smoky note. Very good acidity and brisk on the palate and finish. A skeleton of its usual self. About the same the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Good at best. Reviewed May 5, 2013 ARTICLE »

2010 Rivers-Marie Occidental Ridge Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.1% alc.. · Dark reddish purple color in the glass. Aromas of black raspberry, fig, tobacco smoke and oak rise up from the glass. Concentrated flavors of sweet dark berry and plum with immersed tannins. Still young, without significant tertiary characters, a pleasingly silky mouthfeel, and a well-endowed finish filled with copious sweet fruit. Drink now to 2022+. Score: 92. Reviewed March 29, 2017 ARTICLE »

2010 Rivers-Marie Summa Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

13.8% alc.. · Dark reddish purple color with slight yellowing of the rim in the glass. Aromas of oak, leather saddle, soot and floral bouquet lead to mid weight plus flavors of blackberry, black raspberry, olive and toast. Plush in the mouth, with a good attack but less impressive finish. Unchanged when tasted the following day. Drink up to 2020. Score: 87. Reviewed March 29, 2017 ARTICLE »

2010 Rivers-Marie Occidental Ridge Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., 185 cases, $45. Aged in 60% new French oak barrels. · Moderately dark reddish-purple color in the glass. Ying (savory) and yang (fruit) nose offering scents of dark stone fruits, cinnamon spice, forest floor, pine, mushroom and oak. Plush, full and creamy on the palate featuring flavors of dark red berries and plums, finishing soft and intense with a good cut of acidity. The ripest and most concentrated wine in the 2010 lineup, but not weighty. One of the biggest Rivers-Marie wines ever and a magnet for fruit lovers. Very good. Reviewed May 5, 2013 ARTICLE »

2010 Rivers-Marie Silver Eagle Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.2% alc.,169 cases, $45. Aged in 40% new French oak barrels. Farmed by Ulises Valdez. Clone VR and 828. · Moderately dark reddish-purple color and hazy in the glass. Very brooding, with shy aromas of blackberry jam, black currant, and oak cask. Mid weight core of tasty black fruits backed by complimentary oak. The wine displays a soft, polished texture, balanced tannins, and a welcome cut of acidity on the finish. Very good. Reviewed May 5, 2013 ARTICLE »

2010 Rivers-Marie Gioia Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., 120 cases, $50. Aged in 80% new French oak barrels. Gioia is a 2-acre vineyard just west of Occidental on Joy Road, about a mile from Summa Vineyard as the crow flies. A mix of 115 and Pommard clones. · Moderate reddish-purple color in the glass. The most aromatic wine in the lineup, filling the glass with a perfume of fresh black cherries, raspberries, clove and other spices, and sandalwood. Discretely concentrated dark raspberry and cherry fruit flavors with a hint of brown spice and dark chocolate. The mid palate fruit is very exotic and striking in its vividness, persisting with uncommon clarity in a very juicy, splashy finish. Seamless, with modest tannins, and easy to dance with now. Reviewed May 5, 2013 ARTICLE »

2010 Rivers-Marie Summa Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

13.8% alc., 200 cases, $50. 10% whole cluster. Aged in 50% new French oak barrels. · Medium reddish-purple color in the glass. Very unusual array of aromas and hard to pin down with proper descriptors. I get some aromas of cherries, orange pekoe tea, spice and vanilla wafer. Middleweight flavors of cherries, raspberries and blueberries with the slightest oak in the background. A well-mannered, but not exciting wine, with balanced tannins and crisp acidity. Good. Reviewed May 5, 2013 ARTICLE »

2010 Rivers-Marie Old Vines Summa Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

13.0% alc., 137 cases, $75. Aged in 80% new French oak. Yields just shy of 1 ton per acre. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Big, bold aromas of dark berry jam and black cherries with a hint of dark caramel. Luscious and creamy on the palate with a wave of rather exotic ripe dark berry and plum flavors with hints of spice and toasty oak. Well-balanced tannins and acidity with a long, layered, fruit-filled finish so typical of this vineyard. Tempting now, but best to wait another 3 to 5 years. Reviewed July 22, 2012 ARTICLE »

2010 Rivers-Marie Summa Vineyard Old Vines Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

13.0% alc., 137 cases, $75. Aged in 80% new French oak barrels. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Aromas of black cherries, orange peel, exotic spices and espresso-laced oak. Sumptuous, long and full on the palate featuring flavors of ripe cherries, citrus flavored cranberries, and spice. Picks up interest and intensity over time in the glass. This wine offers obvious sophistication in a gentle, more demure style in this vintage. Very good. Reviewed May 5, 2013 ARTICLE »

2009 Rivers-Marie B. Thieriot Vineyard Sonoma Coast Chardonnay

13.9% alc., 116 cases. Aged in 60% new French oak barrels. 100% MLF. · Honey color (second to some botrytis) and clear in the glass. Faint aromas of apple crisp and toasty oak. Delicious and complex with vivid flavors of baked pears, baked apples, honey, yeast, creme soda, toasted coconut and some citrus peel bringing up the finish. Many of the flavors upon opening are oak-driven but tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, there was more aromatic interest and less oak influence. Nicely balanced and very smooth on the palate with a good grip of acidity. A unique Chardonnay that will please the adventurous. Cellar or decant if you drink now. Very good. Reviewed May 15, 2011 ARTICLE »

2009 Rivers-Marie Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.1% alc.. · Dark reddish purple color in the glass. Leading off are scents of blackberry jam and oak char. Sappy black fruits saturate the palate but there isn’t much else to note. The tannins are soft, the texture is plush, and the finish is filled with fruit and a hint of nutty oak. Drink now to 2020. Score: 85. Reviewed March 29, 2017 ARTICLE »

2009 Rivers-Marie Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., 279 cases, $25. A 12 barrel blend composed roughly of 50% Summa Vineyard (declassified), 25% Willow Creek Vineyard and 25% Lancel Creek Vineyard. Aged in 33% new French oak barrels. · Moderate reddish-purple color in the glass. Aromas of ripe strawberries, dried rose petals and smoky oak. Redder fruits are featured in a slightly terse, almost steely wine with supple tannins, finishing with an acidic tang of grapefruit peel. An excellent wine for the dinner table. Good. Reviewed September 2, 2011 ARTICLE »

2009 Rivers-Marie Occidental Ridge Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., 133 cases, $45. Aged in 33% new French oak barrels.The grape berries were exceptionally small in 2009, composed of only skin and seed. · The resulting juice was dark purple. Dark black plum color in the glass. Aromas of blackberries, dark stone fruits, oak spice and slight reduction. Richly fruited with intense flavors of grilled black fruits, cassis and an underlying savory note. Bright acidity, soft tannins and a smooth mouth feel add to the appeal. This Pinot has as enough acidity to balance out the bold fruit. Very good. Reviewed September 2, 2011 ARTICLE »

2009 Rivers-Marie Silver Eagle Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., 86 cases, $45. Aged in 50% new French oak barrels. Made with reduction so locked down since bottling. · Moderate reddish-purple color in the glass. Reduction upon opening with a heavy scent of oak-derived coffee. Medium-weighted flavors of black cherries and dark red berries with smoky oak and coffee notes in the background. Impressive elegance and softness with a bright lift of acidity on the finish. Decanting recommended. Good (+). Reviewed September 2, 2011 ARTICLE »

2009 Rivers-Marie Old Vines Summa Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

13.2% alc., 106 cases, $60. Aged in 80% new French oak. · Medium reddish-purple color in the glass. Restrained aromas of black cherries, black plums and seasoned oak. Richly flavored red and black fruits accented with notes of spice, herbs and oak. Very soft in the mouth with a bright cut of acidity on the very long finish. Makes a lasting impression. Still young and hasn’t reached its full potential. Reviewed July 22, 2012 ARTICLE »

2009 Rivers-Marie Summa Old Vines Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

13.2% alc., 106 cases, $60. Aged in 80% new French oak barrels. · Moderate reddish-purple color in the glass. An enticing and aromatically exotic nose featuring mixed berries and black cherries with a hint of toasty oak. Clearly the most intoxicating perfume in the lineup. Smooth and polished on the palate with ripe flavors of red plums and cranberries with an underpinning of savory herbs and oak. Similar to the Sonoma Coast bottling in its flavor profile, but with more body, flavor, mid-palate impression and nuance. A delicious wine that has the balance to age extremely well. There is really nothing else quite like a Pinot Noir from these old vines in the Summa Vineyard. Reviewed September 2, 2011 ARTICLE »

2008 Rivers-Marie Occidental Ridge Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.1% alc.. · Gorgeous deep reddish purple color with some thinning of color on the rim. Aromas of black cherry, dusty rose. wood spice and sweaty saddle leather (? Brett). Impressive freshness on the palate, with a charge of opulent black cherry and purple berry fruits accented with cake spice and a subtle infusion of oak. Diaphanous tannins with a lingering, sweet fruited finish. Drink now to 2020. Score: 90. Reviewed March 29, 2017 ARTICLE »

2008 Rivers-Marie Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.1% alc.. · Dark reddish purple color in the glass. Upon opening, aromas of blackberry jam and cassis leap out of the glass, replaced with time by aromas of old leather, wet earth, spice, barrique and mulch. Mid weight plus flavors of blackberry, anise and charcoal grill, what I call “Pinot over the coals.” Mild chalky tannins and a decent finish. This wine will appeal to those who like aged domestic Pinot Noir. Drink up. Score: 87. Reviewed March 29, 2017 ARTICLE »

2008 Rivers-Marie Summa Old Vines Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.1% alc.. · Moderate reddish purple color with slight yellowing of the rim in the glass. Robust aromas of black cherry, blackberry, cassis, rose petal and hazelnut with a slight oxidative note. Rather bold with a copious core of very ripe cherry and berry fruits and a subtle riff of smoke taint in the background. Still giving of plenty of fruit, but offering little tertiary character. Drink now to 2020. Score: 89. Reviewed March 29, 2017 ARTICLE »

2008 Rivers-Marie Summa Vineyard Old Vines Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., Magnum. I reviewed this wine in June 2010 and raved about it: · “Enticing perfume of fresh red cherries and berries with nuances of dark chocolate, Moroccan spices, anise, smoke and savory herbs. The fruit is robust, virile and mouth coating and persists through a generous finish.” I tasted the wine again in July 2012, “Delicious black cherry core with very slight creosote and smoke flavors.” I also tasted the wine in March 2017: “Still rather bold with a copious core of very ripe cherry and berry fruits with a riff of smoke taint in the background.” This magnum was tasted recently. The wine opens initially with aromas of black cherry, mocha and stem but becomes flat rather quickly. Mid-weight plus in style and creamy on the palate with layers of black cherry, blackberry and pomegranate flavors framed by silken tannins. There is clearly some smoke taint evident on the finish. Many Sonoma Coast Pinot Noirs suffered smoke taint from wildfires in 2008. When tasted initially, this wine was terrific, but with age, smoke-tainted Pinot Noir tends to become less fruity and displays more evidence of creosote, something evident in this magnum tasted in 2020. That said, the wine was still quite enjoyable and probably only a wine critic would find fault in the wine. Score: 90. Reviewed August 27, 2020 ARTICLE »

2008 Rivers-Marie Summa Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.1% alc.. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. Off aromas of root beer, medicine cabinet and oxidative notes. The mid weight core of black fruits has noticeable nutty and toasty oak support. There is a hint of rubber that spoils the experience. Flawed. Not rated. Reviewed March 29, 2017 ARTICLE »

2008 Rivers-Marie Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., 225 cases, $25. An earlier drinking wine composed of younger blocks of Summa Vineyard and other barrels from Occidental Ridge and Willow Creek (production was tiny and all of it went into this bottling). · Exciting scents of boysenberries, brioche, seasoned oak and a swirl of spices. The most showy nose in the lineup. Discreetly rich in the mouth, with a wave of black cherries, dark berries, cola, smoke and savory herbs wrapped in peach-skin tannins that combine in a very pleasurable drinking experience. Very good. Reviewed June 22, 2010 ARTICLE »

2008 Rivers-Marie Occidental Ridge Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., pH 3.50, 225 cases, $45. · This one will make the hair on your neck stand erect. Lovely aromas of freshly picked red and black berries and cherries nicely spiced with hints of soak and sage. In the mouth I was at a loss for descriptors. My notes say, “Amazing fruit, want more, really attacks, great juice, class in the glass.” This wine has that California fruit viscosity that makes you proud to be an American, and an addictive and refreshing ending in which the fragrance returns to haunt the finish. It was scary that this wine was better later in the day from a bottle opened earlier in the morning. Imagine what this wine will be like in a couple of years! Reviewed June 22, 2010 ARTICLE »

2008 Rivers-Marie Summa Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., 200 cases, $45. · Enticing perfume of fresh red stone fruits and berries with exotic spices and baked apple. Delicious melange of dark red cherries and berries with nuances of dark chocolate, Moroccan spices, anise, smoke, and savory herbs. The fruit is robust, virile and mouth coating and persists through a generous finish. A whisper of tannin makes for approachability now. A top-shelf Pinot Noir that has the goods and balance to improve in the cellar over the next several years. Reviewed June 22, 2010 ARTICLE »

2008 Rivers-Marie Old Vines Summa Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., 175 cases, $60. Aged in 100% new French oak. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. On the nose, dark fruits are featured including plums and black cherries with a hint of ash and lime. Delicious black cherry core with very slight creosole and smoke flavors. Moderate dry tannins and very impressive length on the finish. Reviewed July 22, 2012 ARTICLE »

2008 Rivers-Marie Summa Old Vines Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., 175 cases, $60. · Intoxicating aromas of wild berries and black cherries and other pheromone scents that make you giddy. Structured and stuffed with an entirely seductive and ever-expanding arsenal of dark red cherries, berries and currants underlain with a subtle smokiness, haunting earthiness and a hint of mushrooms on the grill. Enough tannins for the long haul and balancing acidity to hold the fruit in check. The finish goes on and on, leading to a veritable winegasm. Still tightly wound but considerable upside potential long term. Reviewed June 22, 2010 ARTICLE »

2007 Rivers-Marie Occidental Ridge Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

Clones 115, 777. · The deepest colored wine in the lineup. Plenty of acidity that is hidden by the fruit richness present. Mouthcoating aromas and flavors of fresh berries, mocha, and graham. A Lolita, but still hitting plenty of high notes. Reviewed July 19, 2008 ARTICLE »

2007 Rivers-Marie Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

Aromas of bright cherries carry through to the finish. Delicious and juicy, with lively acidity on the finish. Needs a little time to shed refined, but notable tannins. Reviewed July 19, 2008 ARTICLE »

2007 Rivers-Marie Summa Vineyard Old Vines Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

Exotic scents of wild berries, spices, and graham. Plummy dark fruit with sinew which is brooding, rich and plush, but retains a degree of finesse. Tangy acidity provides juiciness. A wine to contemplate. Reviewed July 19, 2008 ARTICLE »

2007 Rivers-Marie Summa Vineyard Young Vines Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

Touch reduced at present. Sweet red stone fruit charge with herbal and orange peel highlights. Immensely satisfying finish that won’t let go. Reviewed July 19, 2008 ARTICLE »

2007 Rivers-Marie Willow Creek Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

3 barrels. · Complex and comforting nose featuring cherries, floral perfume, and oak spice. Not particularly giving now with reticent earth-imbibed cherry flavors. Quite gentle with finely ground tannins. Reviewed July 19, 2008 ARTICLE »

2007 Rivers-Marie Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., 225 cases, $25. Sourced from clone 667 from Occidental Ridge, the youngest block of Summa Vineyard and three barrels of Willow Creek Vineyard that didn’t make the vineyard cut. Aged in 25% new French oak. · Very pretty aromas of red and black cherries, wildflowers and cardamon spice. Tasty potpourri of layered fruits including black cherries, black raspberries, plums and pomegranate with hints of oak and earth. A lift of acidity on the moderately persistent finish makes for easy drinkability. A good wine in its own right that would compete with many wines priced significantly higher, but outclassed by the other wines in the Rivers-Marie lineup. Drinkable now. Reviewed July 9, 2009 ARTICLE »

2007 Rivers-Marie Willow Creek Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

13.8% alc., 84 cases, $40. From a 2- acre vineyard planted to Dijon clone 777. Aged in 33% new French oak. · Deep reddish-purple color. Very attractive scents of black fruits, sandalwood and spices. A juicy Pinot Noir with vivid, fresh black cherry, cranberry and raspberry fruits. Rich but not cloying with a smooth texture, a good acid spine and soft tannins. Still seems a bit withdrawn and will benefit from decanting if drunk now. Reviewed July 9, 2009 ARTICLE »

2007 Rivers-Marie Occidental Ridge Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.4% alc., 180 cases, $45. Clones 115 and 777. Aged in 40% new French oak. · Complex aromatic profile of dark stone fruits, crushed berries, sage, green garden and smoke. Rich and perfectly ripe black raspberry fruit with an underpinning of earth, oak and orange peel. Thick and robust, yet perfectly balanced with complimentary tannins and acidity. The aromatic and fruity finish is haunting. A thoroughbred that challenges the Summa Old Vines for superiority. Reviewed July 9, 2009 ARTICLE »

2007 Rivers-Marie Summa Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

13.2% alc., 120 cases, $45. Aged in 60% new French oak. · A wowzer nose featuring flamboyant aromas of cherries and berries enhanced with subtle smoky oak. Beautiful core of cherry and berry fruits with hints of pine tar, earth and cola. Packed with flavor yet nimble and harmonious. Smooth in texture with a hint of citric peel on the pleasing finish. Accessible now but will reward patience. A sixty-minute wine: rock ‘em, roll ‘em, all night long. Reviewed July 9, 2009 ARTICLE »

2007 Rivers-Marie Old Vines Summa Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

13.4% alc., 100 cases, $60. Aged in 100% new French oak. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Beguiling aromas of fresh black cherries and spice. Very soft in the mouth, with a delicious core of medium-weight flavors of perfectly ripe cherries and baking spices. Really impresses with depth of flavor which seems to expand into every crevice in the mouth. Well-proportioned tannins and acidity with amazing length on the glorious finish. Poised for many years of exceptional drinking ahead. Reviewed July 22, 2012 ARTICLE »

2007 Rivers-Marie Summa Old Vines Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

13.4% alc., 100 cases, $60. Aged in 100% new French oak. · The nose is similar to the regular Summa bottling but with a magical and penetrating Asian spice scent that smells like the most erotic pheromone in the world. Unbelievably delicious sappy cherry and berry fruit with wisps of sassafras, cola, and exotic spices. The velvety texture is enough to bring you to your knees. An incredible wine that defies adequate description. Suffice it to say that this is a winegasm - one of those Pinot Noirs with such a powerful charisma, that it drives men to do practically anything to get another bottle. Reviewed July 9, 2009 ARTICLE »

2006 Rivers-Marie Summa Old Vines Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.2% alc.. · Light cherry red color withsome yellowing of the rim in the glass. Lovely bouquet of dried cherry, tinder box, pipe smoke, old leather and walnuts. Light to modest in weight with fading fruit flavors of dried black raspberry and blackberry with a hint of vanilla. Gossamer tannins with bright acidity and an uplifting finish. A tired warrior that still offers charm. Drink up. Score: 92. Reviewed March 29, 2017 ARTICLE »

2006 Rivers-Marie Occidental Ridge Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.2% alc.,140 cases, $40. Clones 115, 667, 777. Aged in 67% new oak. · Pie-spiced black cherries and cola carry the show from start-to-finish. A complimentary citrus note adds zip and zing to the finish. All silk and satin with an appealing elegance unique among this lineup of wines. This wine will match much better with food than several of the heavyweight cult wines tasted because of its lively acidity. Reviewed August 19, 2008 ARTICLE »

2004 Rivers-Marie Old Vines Summa Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., 60 cases. Aged in 100% new French oak. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Aromas of oak spice, wood shavings and conifer. Tasty core of black cherry fruit with a complimentary hint of oak. Well-structured and still showing some fine-grain tannin, finishing dry with a tart cherry flourish. Reviewed July 22, 2012 ARTICLE »

2004 Rivers-Marie Summa Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.1% alc.. · Dark reddish purple with slight yellowing of rim in the glass. Tertiary bouquet of earth, mulch and toast woven together with fruit input. Still retains some dark strawberry and black cherry fruit flavors that are hanging in there. The dry tannins are well integrated and there is some length to the dry, cherry finish. Really quite nice for a 13-year-old Pinot. Drink up. Score: 90. Reviewed March 29, 2017 ARTICLE »

2004 Rivers-Marie Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., 180 cases, $50. Sourced from Summa and Joya vineyards. Aged in 50% new French oak barrels. · This wine has a gorgeous nose of crushed plums, cherries and baking spices. A elegant Pinot lover's wine, it is beautifully composed with a silky mouth feel and a lively kick of acid on the pleasing finish which features cherries, mushrooms and a hint of oak. An extremely well-bred Saturday or Sunday wine. Reviewed June 12, 2006

2003 Rivers-Marie Old Vines Summa Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., 44 cases. Aged in 100% new French oak. · Very light garnet color in the glass. Brighter aromas of dark cherries and sandalwood. Elegant, but more body than the 2002 vintage, with pleasing flavors of red berries, cherries, pomegranates, and subtle oak. Fine-grain tannins and some length. Has peaked but will hold a few more years. Reviewed July 22, 2012 ARTICLE »

2002 Rivers-Marie Old Vines Summa Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., 44 cases. Aged in 100% new French oak. · Very light garnet color in the glass. Aromas of cherry, red berry, orange peel, leather and oak. Light and elegant flavors of red strawberries, blood oranges and a hint of oak with slight tannin and bright acidity. Holding, but fruit is beginning the downslope. Reviewed July 22, 2012 ARTICLE »