2012 Scallop Shelf Estate Pinot Noir
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Tasting notes
One of the highlights in this range, the 2012 Pinot Noir Estate Scallop Shelf is juicy, rich and expansive, especially within the context of the true Sonoma Coast, but then again, that is the personality of the year. Dark red cherry, plum, hard candy, spice and new leather blossom in a fleshy, voluptuous wine built on pure resonance. Sweet silky tannins lend support to the creamy finish. There is a lot to like here.
Critic scores
Average Score
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Vivid red. Tangy cherry and raspberry aromas are accented by fresh flowers and Asian spices. Bright and minerally in the mouth, offering intense red fruit flavors that pick up a refreshingly bitter character with air. The floral quality comes back strong on the incisive, very persistent finish, which is firmed by silky, harmonious tannins and zesty acidity.
Peay's 2012 Pinot Noir Scallop Shelf Estate, a wine of considerable potential, brings together the finesse found in the Ama along with the darker notes typical of the Pomarium. Big, ample and powerful, the 2012 shows gorgeous depth in its dark red fruit. Floral overtones add lift to the firm close. The tannins could use another year or two to soften.
About the producer
Peay Vineyards is a small, family-owned estate winery on the rugged West Sonoma Coast in California, crafting elegant, site-driven Pinot Noir, Syrah, Chardonnay, and other varietals from organically farmed grapes grown just miles from the Pacific Ocean.