At a glance

Producer

RAEN Winery

Region

Sonoma Coast, Sonoma County, California, USA

Grape variety

Pinot Noir

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Fruity

Sweetness

Bone Dry

Typical price

$65-$90 (USD retail pre-release estimate for 2023 vintage)

Tasting profile

Aromas of wild strawberry, pomegranate, rose petals, damp earth, orange peel; palate is lively, with fine minerality and a saline edge

Evolution: Will develop spicy, earthy, and savory notes with 3-5 years, showing deeper fruit and softening tannins

At peak: At peak, expect expressive aromatics, complex red fruit, integrated tannins, and layered minerality

Structure

Acidity

Vivid, fresh, supporting long aging

Tannins

Silky, fine-grained, moderate intensity

Alcohol

Medium (typically 13-13.5%)

Aging potential

Very good for Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir; 7-10+ years in ideal conditions

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2027 to 2030

Optimal window

2025 to 2032

Current status

New release, suitable for enjoyment upon release but better with short-term aging

Current condition

Barrel samples suggest primary red fruit and fresh acidity; should be stable and vibrant on release

The structure of RAEN Pinot Noir, especially this cuvée, suggests excellent mid-term aging. At about 4-7 years post-vintage, the primary fruit subsides to reveal more complexity, savory and forest floor notes, and harmonious balance.

Food pairing

Roast duck, wild mushrooms, salmon, pork tenderloin, truffle pasta, or earthy vegetarian dishes.

Serving

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 9/10

Estate vineyards are dry-farmed, managed organically, and farmed using regenerative practices. Cover cropping, composting, natural pest control, low-intervention winemaking, solar-based energy use, and lightweight recycled glass bottles.

RAEN Winery, founded by the Mondavi family, is a leader in Sonoma Coast sustainability. Vineyards are certified organic, dry-farmed, and regenerative, emphasizing biodiversity and soil health. Packaging uses recycled materials; light-glass bottles minimize emissions. While not formally biodynamic, practices align closely with such principles. Minimal chemical input, on-site renewable energy, and focus on eco-conscious materials drive their high sustainability score.