2021 Cobb Pinot Noir Coastlands Vineyard Old Firs Block is one of the best examples ever from this tiny-production, highly collectible Sonoma Coast Pinot from one of the defining estates of the far West Sonoma Coast. Coastlands Vineyard sits near Occidental, less than four miles from the Pacific, with vines planted high above the fog line in a cool, marginal coastal setting that gives Cobb’s wines their combination of intensity, acidity, and restraint. Old Firs Block is named for the massive Douglas firs on the property and comes from one of the original Coastlands plantings, dating to 1989, making it old-vine material by California Pinot standards. The 2021 was made from Martini and 2A clones planted on uplifted marine sedimentary soils at about 1,150 feet elevation, with 40% whole cluster and only 275 cases produced. The vintage was excellent for Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir, giving small berries, concentrated fruit, bright acidity, and firm structure without pushing the wine into heaviness. In the glass, it is deeply aromatic and layered, with pomegranate, red cherry, raspberry, pine needle, rose, lavender, tea leaf, spice, chalky tannin, and a long mineral finish. This is serious, ageworthy California Pinot Noir, with old-vine fruit, coastal tension, low production, and the refined, Burgundy-influenced style that has made Ross Cobb one of the most respected Pinot Noir producers in California. We have low pricing today on a limited amount, and it's a great choice for both old and new school Pinot Noir fans!

 

Jeb Dunnuck.com (Audrey Fick) 98 pts! Similar but a touch more ruby in color, the 2021 Pinot Noir Coastlands Vineyard Old Firs Block is also layered and spicy, with aromas of pine needles, fresh cherries, sweet herbs, and pretty anise. Medium-bodied, it's long on the palate, with a sanguine feel, mouthwatering brightness, and a clean finish. Give it another few years and drink over the following 15. (Drink between 2026 - 2041)

 

Antonio Galloni 97+ points! "The 2021 Pinot Noir Coastlands Old Firs emerges from a block planted with Martini and Wadenswil clones planted in 1989. Exotic and compelling, with captivating inner perfume and stunning balance, the 2021 is unforgettable. Orange peel, kirsch, spice, rose petal, mint and crushed rocks gradually emerge from the glass. The 40% stems are beautifully woven into the wine's fabric. Bright acids and beams of tannin are holding the wine back today, but make no mistake about it, the 2021 is magnificent."

Wine Advocate (Erin Brooks) 96+ points! "The 2021 Pinot Noir Coastlands Vineyard Old Firs Block comes from a single block of vines planted in 1989 on marine sedimentary soils at 1,150 feet in altitude. Made with 40% whole clusters, it's bursting with pomegranate, red cherry and botanical undertones, plus slowly unfurling nuances of cinnamon, mixed tea leaves and lavender. The medium-bodied palate is powerful, its concentrated fruit supported by firm, chalky tannins and focused, driving acidity. It's very expressive and detailed! 275 cases were made."

Decanter 96 points! "The dramatic site on Cobb's Coastlands property is named for an old-growth Douglas fir sitting at the vineyard's edge. The vineyards have used no till, organic farming since 1989, and the wine has an uncanny, evergreen, ethereal character. Aromas show loads of pine needles, tart blood orange zest and a kiss of frankincense with undeniable sea air character. The palate is gorgeous, and the floral notes, both violets and rose petals, are redolent. A gravelly minerality frames the tart cranberry relish and wild alpine blueberries. There is that seaspray again alongside mint and pine sap, which carry the wine's bright fruits to an even more brilliant finish. (Drink between 2024-2038)"