At a glance

Producer

Peay Estate

Region

Sonoma Coast, California, USA

Grape variety

Pinot Noir

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Earthy

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$65-$85

Tasting profile

Fresh red cherry, raspberry, subtle wild herbs, and floral notes with underlying mineral and forest floor nuances.

Evolution: Developing tertiary notes of dried herbs, mushroom, and forest floor after 5-7 years of bottle age.

At peak: Complex layers of fruit and earth, with suppleness in tannins and lingering finish.

Structure

Acidity

High, balancing freshness

Tannins

Medium to firm, fine-grained

Alcohol

13.5%-14.0%

Aging potential

10-15 years from vintage, depending on cellar conditions

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2029 to 2047

Optimal window

2027 to 2050

Current status

Approaching Early Maturity

Current condition

Youthful with vibrant acidity and tight tannins; showing primary fruit and floral aromas

Peay Estate's Scallop Shelf Pinot Noir is crafted from coastal vineyards with careful vineyard management and gentle winemaking, resulting in a wine with balanced acidity, moderate tannins, and concentrated flavor suited for medium-term aging. The 2022 vintage benefits from vintage quality and winery style, supporting a drinking window extending a decade or more from release.

Food pairing

Grilled duck breast, roasted pork tenderloin, mushroom risotto, dishes with herbs like thyme or rosemary, and aged cheeses such as Gruyère or Comté.

Serving

Serving temperature

15-17°C / 59-63°F

Decant

Yes (30-45 minutes) — Allows wine to open up and reveal nuanced aromatics and softens tannins for immediate pleasure.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 9/10

Peay Estate implements stringent water conservation measures, solar energy use, minimal intervention winemaking, natural cover cropping, and low-impact packaging.

Peay Estate is recognized for rigorous commitment to environmental stewardship in vineyards and winery operations. Organic farming, solar power, and water-saving techniques minimize environmental impact, while lightweight packaging and sourcing grapes from estate vineyards reduce transportation emissions. Their practices align well with sustainability goals, earning a high score.