2023 Arnot-Roberts Fox Creek Pinot Noir, Sonoma County

The 2023 Pinot Noir Fox Creek Vineyard is a bold, potent wine. Macerated cherry, spice, orange peel, sage, cedar, new leather and earthy notes fill out the layers. This sturdy yet mid-weight Pinot has a ton of character, even if the tannins are a bit burly.

94 points Antonio Galloni, Vinous

Duncan Arnot Meyers and Nathan Lee Roberts founded Arnot-Roberts in 2001, bringing a refreshing sense of individuality to California winemaking. Friends since childhood, the pair have become renowned for seeking out exceptional vineyards and producing wines that favour fragrance, freshness and subtlety over sheer power. Their Fox Creek Pinot Noir is a beautifully expressive example of this philosophy, capturing the more delicate, savoury side of Sonoma County.

Fox Creek is a cool climate vineyard in Sonoma County, where maritime influences help Pinot Noir develop aromatic complexity while retaining vibrant acidity. The 2023 growing season was notably cooler and later than usual, allowing slow, even ripening and producing wines with wonderful fruit definition and balance.

Bright ruby red with translucent crimson edges. Wild strawberry, red cherry and raspberry mingle with rose petals, dried orange peel and a gentle hint of forest floor. The palate is silky and beautifully composed, with succulent red berries, fine tannins and lively acidity. Subtle notes of clove, tea leaf and earthy spice linger through a long, fragrant finish.

Try it with grilled ocean trout and beetroot, duck breast with sour cherries, or roasted Japanese eggplant with miso and sesame. Its delicate savoury character would also be lovely with handmade mushroom and ricotta tortellini.

Cellaring: Drink now to 2033. Already wonderfully fragrant, with the structure to develop further earthy and savoury complexity over the coming years.