The Stoney River Pinot Noir 2016 is a well-crafted red wine that embodies the elegance and finesse of the Pinot Noir grape. Sourced from vineyards located in California, a region known for its diverse terroirs, the Stoney River Pinot Noir 2016 offers a harmonious balance of fruit, earth, and subtle oak influences. The 2016 vintage highlights the complexity and smooth texture that Pinot Noir is celebrated for, making it a great choice for wine enthusiasts who enjoy wines with both structure and elegance.
Here’s a detailed description of the Stoney River Pinot Noir 2016:
Appearance:
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Color: The wine has a bright, medium ruby red color with slight garnet hues. Its clarity is excellent, and the wine has a youthful, vibrant appearance, suggesting freshness and balance.
Nose:
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Aroma: The Stoney River Pinot Noir 2016 is aromatic and inviting. On the nose, you’ll find a blend of fresh red fruit aromas, including ripe cherry, raspberry, and strawberry, which are typical of Pinot Noir. These fruit aromas are complemented by subtle earthy notes, such as forest floor, wet stone, and a touch of mushroom, adding complexity and depth. The wine also has gentle floral hints of violet and rose petals, which enhance its elegance. There are also delicate spices, such as clove and cinnamon, from the oak aging, adding warmth without overpowering the primary fruit and earth aromas. The overall nose is refined and balanced, offering a mixture of fresh fruit, earthiness, and light spice.
Palate:
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Taste: On the palate, the Stoney River Pinot Noir 2016 is medium-bodied with a smooth, velvety texture. The red fruit flavors—cherry, raspberry, and a hint of cranberry—are bright and expressive, providing the wine with a fresh and lively character. The acidity is well-balanced, providing a nice lift and refreshing quality without feeling too sharp. The tannins are soft and supple, contributing to the wine’s smooth mouthfeel while providing structure. There are subtle oak influences, with a touch of vanilla, toasted oak, and spice, which complement the fruit flavors and add layers of complexity. The finish is long and silky, with lingering notes of red fruit, spice, and a touch of earthiness.
Aging Potential:
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Cellaring: The Stoney River Pinot Noir 2016 is approachable now but has the potential to age for 3-5 years. As it ages, the wine may become even more refined, with the fruit flavors integrating with the earthy and oak notes, developing more complexity.
Food Pairing:
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Pairing: The Stoney River Pinot Noir 2016 is a versatile wine that pairs well with a wide range of dishes. Its bright fruit flavors and smooth texture make it a great match for roasted or grilled poultry, such as roast chicken, turkey, or duck. It also pairs beautifully with lighter meats, such as pork tenderloin or lamb, especially when prepared with herbs or a light sauce. For cheese, consider pairing it with soft cheeses like Brie, Camembert, or goat cheese. The wine also works well with dishes that feature earthy flavors, such as mushroom risotto or grilled vegetables.
Overall:
The Stoney River Pinot Noir 2016 is a beautifully balanced wine that highlights the elegance and complexity of the Pinot Noir grape. With its fresh fruit, earthy notes, subtle oak influence, and smooth texture, it offers a refined and enjoyable drinking experience. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of dishes, this Pinot Noir is an excellent choice for those who appreciate wines with finesse and depth.
