Introduction:
The 2022 Wente Vineyards Riva Ranch Pinot Noir from Arroyo Seco, Monterey County, is a cool-climate expression of Pinot that delivers lively red fruit, refined spice, and subtle earthiness. Its medium-bodied style and silky texture make it an elegant, food-friendly wine with a sense of place and varietal purity.

Terrior:
This wine is sourced exclusively from the estate’s Riva Ranch Vineyard in the Arroyo Seco AVA, known for its gravelly-loam soils and long, cool growing season. These conditions allow for extended hang time, preserving acidity and enhancing flavor complexity, making it an ideal site for expressive, balanced Pinot Noir.

Appearance:
Clear, medium ruby in color with slight translucence at the rim, typical of well-made cool-climate Pinot Noir. The hue suggests a moderate extraction and vibrant fruit concentration.

Nose:
The aromatic profile is layered with black cherry, raspberry, and red currant, lifted by floral tones and enriched by notes of toasted oak, baking spice, and forest floor. Hints of chestnut and cinnamon add warmth and depth.

Palate:
Medium-bodied with supple tannins and vibrant acidity, the wine delivers bright flavors of cherry, cranberry, and bramble fruit, supported by earthy undertones and well-integrated oak spice. There’s a mineral core that adds structure and freshness, while the use of neutral and new French oak offers finesse without overwhelming the fruit.

Finish:
Clean, fresh, and persistent, the finish showcases lingering red berries, subtle spice, and earthy nuance. The acidity remains crisp throughout, maintaining balance and length.

Overall Impression:
The 2022 Wente Riva Ranch Pinot Noir is a polished and expressive example of Arroyo Seco Pinot — bright, silky, and beautifully balanced. It offers a harmonious mix of red fruit, spice, and minerality, with just enough oak to add richness without distraction. A versatile wine well-suited for both weekday dinners and more thoughtful pairings.

Recommended Food Pairing:

• Meat / Fish / Poultry: Herb-roasted chicken, grilled salmon, duck breast with cherry sauce, pork tenderloin with mushroom-red wine reduction

• Vegetarian / Vegetable / Hearty Vegetarian: Mushroom risotto, roasted root vegetables, lentil stew, ratatouille

• Cheese / Charcuterie: Mild Brie, fresh goat cheese, young Comté, prosciutto with melon, mushroom pâté, light pâtés

Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): 14.5%
Farming Practices: Estate-grown grapes at Riva Ranch Vineyard, Arroyo Seco AVA
Producer Name: Wente Vineyards
Old World / New World: New World
Country of Origin: United States
Region: Arroyo Seco, Monterey County, California
Grape Varietals: 100% Pinot Noir
Vintage: 2022
Wine Style: Medium-bodied, fruit-forward yet nuanced Pinot Noir with balanced oak and bright acidity
Winemaking Techniques: Fermented in stainless steel with daily pump-overs; aged 11 months in 20% new French oak and 80% neutral barrels
Pack Size: 750 mL
Container Style: Glass bottle
Closure Style: Cork