2023 La Crema Pinot Noir, Monterey

This bottling from what's turning out to be an epic vintage punches far above its price class, and stays on point even days after being opened. Aromas of freeze-dried strawberries set in a pile of dusty white rocks combines freshness with earthiness on the nose. The palate is snappy, bright and yet rich with raspberry, rose petal, white pepper and sagebrush flavors.

94 points Matt Kettmann wineenthusiast.com

La Crema Pinot Noir from Monterey is a polished, cool climate expression that shows why this stretch of coastal California has become a sweet spot for the variety. Monterey County is shaped by the cold Pacific influence, with fog rolling inland through the Salinas Valley and long, cool growing seasons that allow Pinot Noir to ripen slowly. The result is fruit with purity, freshness and fine tannin rather than excess weight. Sandy loam and gravelly soils help keep the wines bright and focused.

La Crema has long been associated with cool climate Pinot Noir, and Monterey sits right at the heart of that identity. The philosophy here is all about site selection and gentle handling, sourcing fruit from vineyards that consistently deliver balance and aromatic detail. This Pinot is made to be expressive and approachable, but never simple, capturing both regional character and varietal charm.

In the glass, the wine is immediately inviting. Red cherry, raspberry and cranberry lead the way, followed by hints of wild strawberry and subtle baking spice. With air, gentle savoury notes emerge, forest floor, dried herbs and a touch of cola adding complexity. The palate is medium bodied and silky, with fine, supple tannins and well judged acidity giving the wine flow and freshness. Oak is neatly integrated, adding warmth and structure without dominating the fruit.

This is a Pinot Noir that works effortlessly at the table. Roast chicken, grilled salmon, pork, mushroom dishes or lighter game are all natural matches. It is drinking beautifully now for its bright fruit and soft texture, but it will also hold comfortably over the next five to seven years as it gains more savoury nuance. La Crema Pinot Noir Monterey is confident, smooth and reliably elegant, a crowd pleasing Pinot that still respects its cool climate roots.