2023 Freestone Occidental Pinot Noir
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Tasting notes
The 2023 Pinot Noir Freestone-Occidental is bursting with vibrant scents of red cherry, cranberry, black tea, conifer, pipe tobacco, saline and generous spicy nuances. The medium-bodied palate is bursting with layers of succulent fruit, and its expressive, earthy undertones are reminiscent of a coastal forest. It has a lacy frame of tannins, bright acidity and a long, tobacco-laced finish. It’s a touch more open than the rest of the 2023s and will be approachable sooner.
Critic scores
Average Score
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
Rich and gamey on the nose. Just a bit too sweet for my taste. And it cuts off a bit suddenly. (JR)
A superb wine, the 2023 Pinot Noir Bodega captures all the best the vintage had to offer. Seamless and elegant, the 2023 is an absolute delight. Blood orange, spice, mint, tobacco and dried flowers all build in the glass. The 100% stems are present but beautifully integrated. The 2023 is a superb wine for the year and for Raen. It has plenty of youthful, coastal energy, but is not quite as austere as the two other Pinots in the range. Stellar.
About the producer
Steve Kistler is a man who needs little introduction. He founded, and – for almost 40 years – made the wines at, Kistler. Since leaving his eponymous estate in 2017, Kistler has been focused exclusively on Occidental, his new, family winery on the outer edges of the Sonoma Coast.