95 Points -
"The 2023 Pinot Noir Sevens Bench Vineyard from Carneros is a jeweled ruby color and takes on notes of dark wild black raspberries, mossy earth, and fresh violets as well as savory but fresh hints of porcini. Medium-bodied, it has more richness, with ripe tannins and a savory, snappy, iron-rich feel that closes it out and accents the finish. It has a deeper feel but remains refreshing and is going to drink well over the coming 15 years. " - Audrey Frick, jebdunnuck.com, July 2025
Tasting Notes
True to its Carneros roots, the 2023 Sevens Bench Pinot Noir carries the hallmark of the region-fruit intensity balanced by an earthy and savory side. The aromas open with raspberry and boysenberry, and lead into subtle truffle and spice characters. The flavors are reminiscent of black cherry and Asian spice; a subtle black tea component is driven by a small amount of whole-cluster fermentation. The wine finishes with juiciness and elegant tannin.
Historic Acclaim
2022: 93 Points, Audrey Frick, jebdunnuck.com, July 2024
2021: 94 Points, Audrey Frick, jebdunnuck.com, July 2023
2019: 93 Points, Robert Parker Wine Advocate, July 2022
2018: 94 Points, Jeb Dunnuck, jebdunnuck.com, July 2021
2017: 94+ Points, Jeb Dunnuck, jebdunnuck.com, June 2020
2016: 92+ Points Jeb Dunnuck, jebdunnuck.com, May 2019
2015: 93 Points Wine Enthusiast, July 2018
Vineyard & Vintage Character
Intensive farming and low yields are the foundations of our Carneros offering. The vineyard is on a ridge at 200-foot elevation, part of an uplifted riverbed that allows good drainage in the traditional clay-based soils of the region. The name Sevens Bench is derived from the two clones planted on our block: Clones 37 (Mount Eden) and Dijon 777. We also blend in the Swan Selection Pinot noir for complexity.
Wine Details
Oak: 100% French oak, 27% new
Time in oak: 15 months
Yeast: Native
Alcohol: 14.2%
TA: 5.6 g/L
pH: 3.79
Cases produced: 219
No fining or filtration