Santa Cruz Mountains Rhys Alpine Vineyard 2019 Pinot Noir JD94 WA92 Rated

Rhys Vineyards Alpine Vineyard Pinot Noir 2019
Nestled in California’s Santa Cruz Mountains, Rhys Vineyards crafts this exceptional Pinot Noir from Alpine Vineyard’s heritage-selected clones—a testament to their commitment to quality terroir-driven wines. This 2019 vintage balances vibrant fruitiness with subtle earthy complexity, offering an ideal choice for enthusiasts seeking a refined yet approachable red wine experience.

The wine’s aroma invites you with notes of black cherry and blackberry intertwined with hints of smoked earth and nutmeg—a harmonious blend of ripe red fruits and aromatic dried herbs like sagebrush and potpourri that reflect its mountainous origins. On the palate, its medium-bodied elegance shines through silky tannins and bright acidity, creating a seamless texture that pairs effortlessly with delicate proteins such as grilled salmon or herb-roasted poultry. While Jeb Dunnuck praised its nuanced depth at 94 points (“beautifully balanced” with “spiced red fruits”), Wine Advocate highlighted its “long and spicy” finish at 92 points, underscoring its versatility across food pairings and occasions.

With an alcohol content of just 12.9%, this Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir delivers approachability without sacrificing complexity—a rare find for those who prefer lighter yet layered wines. Its southwest-facing vineyard location ensures optimal ripeness while maintaining freshness, resulting in a wine that’s both silky-smooth today and built to age gracefully in your cellar for over a decade.

Whether you’re celebrating now or planning to cellar it for future enjoyment, this bottle stands out among California Pinots for its refined structure and aromatic richness derived from meticulous winemaking practices.

Note: Alcohol content is listed at 12.9%. Vintage availability may vary by location; check store inventory for current stock.

This version integrates keywords like Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir, heritage clones, medium-bodied, silky tannins, aging potential, lighter red wine, award-winning, and terroir-driven naturally while emphasizing user benefits such as food pairing versatility and long-term cellaring appeal. It highlights Rhys Vineyards’ expertise and regional pride while addressing preferences for nuanced flavors without excessive alcohol levels—a key differentiator in competitive Pinot Noir markets.—