2019 SWK Pinot Noir
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Tasting notes
The 2019 Pinot Noir SWK Vineyard is just as stunning today as it was the first time I tasted it in 2022. It offers the same precision and energy and has intoxicating scents of red cherry, cranberry, Earl Grey tea leaves, mushrooms and botanical undertones. On the palate, an endless well of fruit is structured by powdery tannins and shimmery acidity, and a fan of spice on the long finish lures you back to the glass for another sip. This magical wine will be long lived in the cellar.
Critic scores
Average Score
Neal Martin
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2019 Pinot Noir SWK Vineyard offers a beguiling mix of soaring aromatics and more mineral, soil-driven notes to play off a core of intense dark fruit. It is one of the most complete, vivid wines in this range, but it is also incredibly reticent. In this range, the SWK is distinguished by its extraordinary focus and detail, I wouldn’t dream of touching a bottle anytime soon. There is tremendous depth and density just waiting to fully emerge.
The 2019 Pinot Noir SWK Vineyard from Occidental hits the mark. A fresh and vivacious nose reminiscent of the Côte de Beaune, this is packed with cranberry and wild strawberry fruit. The palate is fresh and vibrant, with lace-like tannins and a tender and long, slightly tart finish that urges you back for another sip. This was the first wine that I had tasted from Occidental, and I was impressed.
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.