Benziger biodynamically farms a 25-acre site near Bodega Bay that’s cut into two blocks, Quintus and Terra Neuma. For this cuvée, grapes were night-harvested and fermented with ambient yeasts, and the wine enjoyed 16 months of aging in French oak barrels. It was bottled unfiltered.
It’s a deep, saturated ruby color and flamboyantly aromatic, suggesting dried and fresh fruits, petals, and herbs. The palate is silky at first before flavors of anise and cumin, pomegranate and rhubarb wash out in a rush of vibrant acidity.
It’s piquant, spiced, charming. Pair it with tagines, paella, lamb; the acid and spice with cut through richness. Also good with vegetarian and vegan fare studded with mushrooms, or try smoked salmon, a mixed cheese course, strudel.
2016 Benziger Family Winery de Coelo Pinot Noir Quintus Sonoma Coast
14.1% abv | $69 (sample); 450 cases made
