At a glance

Producer

Meiomi

Region

California, USA

Grape variety

Pinot Noir

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Fruity

Sweetness

Off-Dry

Typical price

$25-$40 (secondary/auction markets as of 2024)

Tasting profile

Fading red and black berry fruit, notes of stewed fruit and earth, some oak spice and cola; tertiary notes like forest floor and leather may be emerging.

Evolution: Primary fruit flavors largely diminished; secondary and tertiary characteristics dominant. Some potential for over-aged/oxidized notes.

At peak: Wine peaked 2015-2016; now may be fading and only optimal if impeccably stored.

Structure

Acidity

Medium

Tannins

Low, soft and integrated

Alcohol

Medium-high (approx. 13.7%)

Aging potential

Low to moderate; intended for early drinking; unlikely to benefit from further aging

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2015 to 2016

Optimal window

2014 to 2017

Current status

Mature, possibly past its optimal drinking window. Best consumed soon.

Current condition

Likely showing diminished fruit, tertiary characteristics, and soft structure. Drink now if well stored.

Meiomi Pinot Noir is produced in a fruit-forward, approachable style, best consumed within 2-5 years of vintage. The 2012 will now be showing clear signs of age, with significantly less fruit and more earthy, tertiary notes, and probable decline in vibrancy and freshness.

Food pairing

Pair with roast poultry, pork, mushroom dishes, or mild cheeses; avoid dishes that require vibrant acidity or fruit since the wine's structure has softened.

Serving

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 3/10

Standard large-scale Californian production methods in 2012, with no widely documented energy, water, or packaging initiatives. Likely use of conventional viticulture and winery operations.

As of the 2012 vintage, Meiomi did not make public significant sustainability efforts, nor did it hold any relevant sustainability/organic certifications (such as SIP, CCSW, or CCOF). Large-scale production typically involves conventional farming and winemaking methods, with packaging and carbon emissions reflecting standard industry practice rather than leadership in sustainability. Recent years (post-2018) have seen some brands move toward improved practices, but 2012 Meiomi Pinot Noir does not qualify as an environmentally or socially sustainable wine.