Chanin Sanford & Benedict Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021

Robert ParkerThe 2021 Pinot Noir Sanford & Benedict Vineyard is scented of raspberry, cranberry, autumn leaves and spicy undertones. The palate is surprisingly powerful with concentrated, layered fruit, spice and floral character. It has abundant, grainy tannins, shimmery acidity, and a very long, perfumed finish. It deserves 3-5 years in bottle.

VinousThe 2021 Pinot Noir Sanford & Benedict Vineyard is beguiling. Bright, lifted and beautifully focused, Chanin's 2021 captures all the magic of this site. Blood orange, mint and sweet spice meld into a core of bright redtoned fruit. Medium in body and yet wonderfully deep, the S&B is a total knock-out. The 50% whole clusters are not at all evident.

Gavin Chanin describes 2021 as a mostly cool, sunny year, with cool weather also during flowering that resulted insmaller berries with thicker skins. The wines are gorgeous. The Chardonnays are pressed to barrel, with no settling, where they stay for 13-14 months before being racked for the first time and moved back into wood. Pinot Noirs typically see 35-50% whole clusters, but stems are rarely a pronounced signature. The Chanin wines stand out for their understated finesse and elegance. In 2021, the Chardonnays are especially fine.

Jeb DunnuckI loved the 2021 Pinot Noir Sanford & Benedict Vineyard, which is up with the best in the lineup. Ripe red fruits (cherries, strawberries, mulberries) as well as some spice and pretty floral notes emerge on the nose, and it hits the palate with a supple, layered mouthfeel, soft yet present tannins, beautifully integrated acidity, and a great finish. It will evolve gracefully through 2033.