The 2017 Ernest Vineyards Cleary Ranch The Settler Pinot Noir is a distinguished red wine hailing from the Sonoma appellation in California's North Coast region. Produced by Ernest Vineyards, this wine reflects the true essence of a classic Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir. With an alcohol content of 11.7%, it caters well to those who prefer lower alcohol wines.

Professional reviewers have praised the 2017 vintage for its complexity and finesse. Jeb Dunnuck awarded it a score of 92, highlighting its "rocking nose of spiced cherries, raspberries, scorched earth, white flowers, and subtle oak." He noted that the wine is medium-bodied with a "pure, crystalline texture" and "nicely integrated acidity," predicting that it will benefit from 2-3 years of bottle age and has the potential to evolve over the next decade. Dunnuck encapsulates it as a "textbook Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir."

James Suckling also gave the wine a 92, emphasizing its vibrant aromatics and flavor profile. He described the nose as having "raspberry and dried red-cherry" with "earthy and spicy complexity." On the palate, Suckling found it to be sleek and fluid, featuring ripe red cherries that are "even and fresh." He suggested that this wine can be enjoyed now or held for future enjoyment.

Vinous, with Antonio Galloni as the reviewer, rated the wine slightly lower at 90 but still lauded its unique characteristics. Galloni pointed out the wine's "savory expression" due to the especially cold site of the Cleary Ranch Vineyard. He mentioned notes of "rose petal, mint, sage, dried flowers, game, and sweet red berry," describing the wine as "nervous, edgy" with no shortage of personality or character.

Overall, the 2017 Ernest Vineyards Cleary Ranch The Settler Pinot Noir has garnered strong reviews for its distinct flavor profile and aging potential, making it a noteworthy addition to any wine enthusiast's collection.