The 2021 Wayfarer Pinot Noir Fort Ross-Seaview is a commendable expression of Sonoma's North Coast terroir, showcasing the craftsmanship of the Wayfarer estate. This Pinot Noir, bottled with a cork closure, has an alcohol content of 14.4% and presents a medium to full-bodied profile.
The Wine Independent awarded this vintage an impressive score of 96, noting its "pale to medium ruby-purple" color and a bouquet that "prances out of the glass with fragrant notes of Bing cherries, fresh raspberries, and wild blueberries." The reviewer also highlighted its "electric tension and impressive purity" with very fine-grained tannins and a long, vibrant finish.
Jeb Dunnuck gave a slightly lower, yet still high, score of 94. He described the wine as having a "deep ruby" hue and an "attractive perfume of cardamom, pure wild raspberry, and fresh sage." Dunnuck emphasized the wine's "lovely balance of fruit and freshness" and its potential for aging, suggesting it should be consumed between 2024 and 2034.
Vinous, represented by Antonio Galloni, rated the wine at 93. Galloni found the 2021 Pinot Noir Estate to be a "terrific introduction to this range," noting its complexity with "crushed red berry fruit, spice, mint, and blood orange." Although he observed that the wine came across as "pretty tight" immediately post-bottling, he remains optimistic about its aging potential, recommending consumption from 2024 to 2036.
Wine Spectator also rated the wine at 93, describing it as having "showy raspberry and boysenberry puree notes" with accents of "anise, violet, and hibiscus." The review praised the wine's polished finish and structural depth, suggesting it is best enjoyed now through 2028.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awarded the wine a 95, highlighting its "inviting aromas of cranberry sauce, mushroom, allspice, and bitters." The review noted the wine's concentrated, nuanced fruit and "generous, powdery tannins," predicting it will develop further complexity over the next decade.
James Suckling echoed the high praise with another score of 96, calling the wine "very floral with hints of rose stems and hibiscus" and flavors of "fresh ripe strawberry and citrus." He remarked on its "very long and intense" finish and the "lovely purity of fruit," suggesting it can be enjoyed now or held for future development.
Overall, the 2021 Wayfarer Pinot Noir Fort Ross-Seaview has received strong acclaim across the board, with reviewers praising its aromatic complexity, balanced structure, and aging potential.