Team C&J
Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir can often be characterized by its finesse and brightness, yet this bottle adds unexpected depth and structure, a credit to winemaker Matthew Casalenuovo’s skill. This Pinot Noir marries the delicate nuances of the grape with a somewhat bolder-than-usual structure, making it suitable for pairing with a variety of dishes, from earthy vegetarian dishes to subtly spiced meats.
We scored this 93 points and a Vivino users give it a strong rating of 4.5. Priced at $70, this wine sits comfortably in the premium tier of domestic Pinot Noir, promising both immediate enjoyment and the potential for continued evolution in the bottle until 2031.
Matthew Casalenuovo, the Head Winemaker at Coursey Graves, brings a world-spanning depth of expertise to his craft. Originally studying architecture, he pivoted to his true passion—winemaking—completing his degree in Viticulture and Enology at UC Davis. This academic foundation, paired with practical experience at iconic wineries like Williams Selyem and Ramey Wine Cellars, honed his approach. Casalenuovo’s journey included harvests in New Zealand, Australia, France, and Italy, experiences that expanded his perspective on terroir and technique. Returning to California, he joined Coursey Graves, where he has spent over five years creating wines that reflect his belief in the inseparable bond between farming and winemaking. Although his early work centered around Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, his portfolio now includes Bordeaux and Rhône-style wines, with his Sonoma Coast Chardonnay and Bennett Mountain Estate red blend highlighting his artistry.
For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine slightly below room temperature, around 16-18°C (60-65°F), to maintain its vibrant aromatics and structure. Decanting for 30 minutes will allow the wine to fully open, softening the tannins and enhancing the aromatic profile.
Though delightful now, this Pinot Noir’s balanced acidity and structure suggest it will continue to age well through 2031. Over time, expect the fresh berry notes to mellow and integrate further with the earthy and spicy elements, developing additional layers of complexity.
Appearance
Color: The wine presents a medium ruby hue, crystal-clear, with a modest concentration that hints at the Pinot’s elegance.
Viscosity: When swirled, this wine shows medium-plus viscosity, suggesting a structured wine with moderate alcohol at 13%.
Aroma
The bouquet is lush and pronounced, offering an inviting medley of aromas:
Floral & Fruit Notes: A fragrant introduction of violet intertwines with vibrant raspberry, strawberry, and black cherry, offering a refined sweetness without veering toward jamminess.
Earthy & Herbal Undertones: Adding complexity, hints of damp earth, fresh mint, and a touch of forest floor (often described as ‘dirt’) emerge, evoking a natural essence and terroir-driven quality.
Spicy Highlights: There are also hints of warm spices like cinnamon and a subtle, smoky undertone reminiscent of a cigar box, which provide depth and intrigue to the aromatic profile.
Palate
Fruit and Floral Continuity: The palate mirrors the nose, with black cherry, raspberry, and strawberry forming the core of the flavor profile. Violet persists, adding elegance and cohesion.
Earth and Spice: This wine brings an earthy note with flavors akin to truffle or damp soil, aligning with savory olive, which is somewhat unexpected but delightful in a Pinot Noir. The touch of cigar box and herbal oregano adds layers of nuance to the tasting experience.
Structure: Medium acidity keeps the wine lively, while medium-plus tannins create a structure rarely seen in a Pinot Noir, particularly from Sonoma. The body, too, leans toward medium-plus, lending a texture that invites pairing with richer dishes.
Finish: The wine closes with a medium-plus finish, lingering with a blend of cherry, earthy, and spicy notes. Its persistence on the palate hints at the wine’s cellaring potential, even though it’s highly enjoyable now.
The 2021 Works & Days Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir demonstrates that Pinot Noir can indeed embody a bolder, more structured style without losing its inherent elegance. The influence of Sonoma Coast’s terroir and the precision of Matthew Casalenuovo’s winemaking are evident, producing a wine that both reflects its origin and stands out within the often-delicate world of Pinot Noir. While it may not adhere to the lighter, red-fruit-driven style that some Pinot lovers may expect, it delivers a compelling alternative with its rich body, earthy nuances, and lingering finish.
As mentioned earlier, at $70, this wine offers good value for a high-scoring Pinot Noir that balances both complexity and approachability. It is a wine to savor now with a meal, but it’s also one to watch as it continues to develop in the bottle, promising an exciting journey for those who appreciate the layered subtleties that Pinot Noir has to offer.
USA
Sonoma Coast
Pinot Noir
13
Matthew Casalenuovo
62–68°F / 16–20°C
Pinot Noir
30 Minutes
Now to 2031
Coursey Graves
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