Introduction:
The 2023 Valravn Pinot Noir from Sonoma County, California is a lively, approachable Pinot that balances bright fruit, earthy nuance, and a touch of spice. It shows how Valravn draws on Sonoma’s diverse microclimates to craft a Pinot Noir with both freshness and depth.

Terrior:
The wine is sourced primarily (≈ 85%) from the Russian River Valley AVA, complemented by declassified barrels from their Sonoma Coast AVA “Marine Layer” project (≈ 10%) and a small parcel from the high‑elevation Mendocino Ridge AVA (≈ 5%). This mix results in a Pinot with warmth and richness (from Russian River Valley fruit) balanced by cool‑climate energy and structure from the Sonoma Coast and Mendocino Ridge.

Appearance:
Dark ruby with a translucent rim — typical of high-quality California Pinot Noir. The clarity and saturation suggest vibrancy and moderate extraction, balanced by elegance.

Nose:
Bright aromatics of Bing cherry, cranberry, and pomegranate are accented by rose petals, subtle cinnamon, and a light forest floor or earthy character. A gentle herbal thread adds complexity without overshadowing the fruit.

Palate:
Medium-bodied with smooth tannins and a graceful, supple texture. Core flavors of red cherry, wild strawberry, and cranberry lead into savory hints of bramble, dried herbs, and spice. Around 20% whole-cluster fermentation and modest oak aging (20% new French) contribute lift and spice, supporting rather than dominating the vibrant fruit.

Finish:
Bright and clean, with red berry notes carrying through. A touch of mineral and spice lingers, leaving a refreshing, balanced impression.

Overall Impression:
The 2023 Valravn Pinot Noir captures the essence of Sonoma Pinot — elegant, fruit-driven, but with enough savory and structural elements to add intrigue. The interplay of Russian River richness and coastal freshness makes this an exceptional value, perfect for both casual enjoyment and thoughtful pairing.

Recommended Food Pairing:

• Meat / Fish / Poultry: Roast chicken with herbs, grilled salmon, duck breast with cherry glaze, pork tenderloin with mushroom sauce

• Vegetarian / Vegetable / Hearty Vegetarian: Mushroom risotto, lentil stew, roasted root vegetables, grilled eggplant with tahini

• Cheese / Charcuterie: Mild Brie, fresh goat cheese, young Comté, prosciutto, duck pâté, smoked turkey breast

Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): ~14%
Farming Practices: Hand-harvested grapes from Russian River Valley, Sonoma Coast, and Mendocino Ridge vineyards
Producer Name: Valravn
Old World / New World: New World
Country of Origin: United States
Region: Sonoma County, California
Grape Varietals: 100% Pinot Noir
Vintage: 2023
Wine Style: Medium-bodied, fruit-forward yet nuanced Pinot Noir with bright acidity and subtle earthy complexity
Winemaking Techniques: Cold soak, wild yeast fermentation with ~20% whole cluster; aged 11 months in new and used French oak barrels (François Frères & Remond), full malolactic
Pack Size: 750 mL
Container Style: Glass bottle
Closure Style: Cork