2020 Three Sticks Pinot Noir Gap's Crown Vineyard

The 2020 Pinot Noir Gap's Crown Vineyard is generous and ripe with preserved berries, herbes de Provence, and tarragon. Medium to full-bodied, with good length and ripe fruit throughout, it has a more present tannin structure, while retaining a plush mouthfeel. The palate is generous with black raspberry and forest floor. Drink 2024-2032. This Chardonnay and Pinot Noir house is a member of the West Sonoma Coast Vintners and is based in Sonoma. The name comes from the founder and principal, Bill Price III, who was nicknamed “Billy Three Sticks” by childhood friends for the Roman numerals after his name. He got his start in the wine industry when he purchased the Durrell Vineyard in 1998 and founded Three Sticks in 2002. Ryan Prichard came on to the team in 2015 to apprentice alongside winemaker Bob Cabral (previously of Williams Selyem) before taking over the position he holds today as Director of Winemaking. With key holdings of Durell Vineyard and Gap’s Crown Vineyard as well as other sites in the West Sonoma Coast AVA, these wines are on my radar to watch over the coming years. This report's wines were tasted with winemaker Ryan Prichard this May in Sonoma. Additionally, Ryan is responsible for the impressive Cabernet Sauvignon wines of Flambeaux, which were reviewed separately.

Sprightly in feel, with subtle tension to the finely beaded acidity that carries the core of mulberry and damson plum fruit along. Offers light red licorice and singed red tea accents, which add range to the finish. Tasty. Drink now through 2028. 872 cases made.

Aromas of preserved strawberries, pitted cherries, nutmeg and bark. Medium- to full-bodied with soft tannins. Juicy and nicely concentrated with a subtle, persistent finish. Drink now.