2021 Arista Pinot Noir Mononi Vineyard

Named after Paul Mononi, who grew up on Pelegrini Ranch farming grapes in the Russian River Valley, the 2021 Pinot Noir Mononi Vineyard comes from his 5-acre vineyard of 35-year-old vines planted entirely with Dijon clones. In the cellar, it saw 15% whole clusters in the fermentation. On opening, it pours a jeweled ruby/magenta hue and boasts layered aromas of pure black cherries, violets, sweet forest herbs, and mossy earth. Medium-bodied, it reveals a deeper feel, with ripe tannins and a gravelly texture that is going to only improve if given time. Drink 2026-2040. Located in the heart of the Russian River Valley, Arista Winery was founded in 2002 by Al and Janis McWilliams, who handed over day-to-day operations to their children, Mark and Ben, in 2012. Today, the winemaking is overseen by esteemed winemaker Matt Courtney, who spent eight years with Marcassin. Additionally, Matt makes wines under his own label, Ferren, and as of this year, Volterre, which readers will find in this report. He holds back an additional year in bottle for both wineries before release. This year, we see the return of the Pinot Noirs in the range, after the estate made the difficult decision not to produce any reds in 2020 due to the effects of the fires. In the cellar, all of the wines are barrel fermented, and fermentation is started with native yeast.

Ripe pinot but so fresh and floral, with black cherries and violets on the nose. Medium- to full-bodied with firm and fine tannins. This is going to age beautifully. Tight at the end. From grapes planted in 1998, all Dijon 115 and 113 clones. Needs three or four years to open. Drink after 2027.

The 2021 Pinot Noir Mononi Vineyard is redolent of blue/purplish fruit, earthiness, game, incense and licorice. The Mononi is dark and also a bit introspective in feel. Even so, it retains plenty of energy.