The 2021 DuMol Wester Reach Pinot Noir, hailing from the Russian River Valley in Sonoma, California, stands as a notable example of the region's potential for producing high-caliber Pinot Noirs. This vintage, crafted by DuMol, is a red wine with an alcohol content of 14.1%, sealed with a traditional cork closure.
James Suckling awarded this wine a score of 95 points, describing it as a robust offering. He noted, "A wine with a lot of back end, with dark fruits of blackberry and cherry. Ripe strawberry. Hints of toasted oak and smoke." He emphasized its structure and complexity, adding, "It’s full and layered with very firm and polished tannins. Very serious and real, and shows the structure of the vintage. Some chocolate. Strawberry pie, too." Suckling suggests that while it is drinkable now, it will benefit from two to three years of aging.
Vinous, represented by Antonio Galloni, rated the wine between 90 to 92 points, also expressing high praise. Galloni highlighted its vibrant character, stating, "The 2021 Pinot Noir Wester Reach is fabulous. Bright and explosive, the Wester Reach is a fabulous introduction to the vintage at DuMOL." He pointed out the distinct notes of "red/purplish fruit, lavender, rose petal and kirsch," calling the wine a "total knock out."
Wine Enthusiast's Jim Gordon echoed this enthusiasm with another 95-point review. He observed, "Vivid, brilliant, focused fruit flavors light up this lively, almost-electric wine while racy acidity and lightly gripping tannins give a mouthwatering texture that won't quit." Gordon also suggested its potential for aging well, recommending it as best enjoyed between 2025 and 2032.
In summary, the 2021 DuMol Wester Reach Pinot Noir is characterized by its depth and complexity, with layers of dark and red fruit flavors, subtle oak influences, and firm tannins. The reviews collectively highlight its vibrancy and aging potential, marking it as a standout wine from the Russian River Valley.