The 2022 Failla Occidental Ridge Vineyard Pinot Noir is a distinguished entry from the Sonoma Coast, known for its complexity and depth. This wine, crafted by Failla, showcases the classic Pinot Noir varietal with a notable alcohol content of 13.8%. It is sealed with a cork, a traditional choice that complements its elegant presentation.

Decanter awards this Pinot Noir a high score of 95, praising its "brooding character" and describing it as a wine with "dark, smoky aromas of frankincense, singed violets, and earthen elements." The publication highlights the wine's complex palate, noting "spicy blood orange, smoky soy, hoisin sauces, black tea, and an intense minerality."

Vinous also rates this wine favorably, giving it a score of 94. The review lauds the wine as "another magical wine from this site," emphasizing its "deep, pliant, and resonant" nature. The tasting notes mention a rich bouquet of "succulent dark red cherry, plum, spice, coffee, licorice, lavender, and menthol," culminating in a description of the wine as a "drop-dead gorgeous beauty."

Wine Enthusiast joins in the praise with another 94 score, describing the wine's aroma as "sultry" with "baked cherry, toasted nori, black tea, and grilled mushroom notes." The review by Tom Capo notes that the wine's "plush tannins balance nervy acidity," with flavors of "crushed blackberry, cola, and cedar." Capo suggests that this Pinot Noir will benefit from a few years in the cellar, particularly when paired with dishes featuring mushroom or truffle.

Overall, the 2022 Failla Occidental Ridge Vineyard Pinot Noir is a wine of notable distinction, celebrated for its complexity, aromatic depth, and the promise of graceful aging.