Elizabeth Spencer Winery Reviews

The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Calistoga features pretty straightforward cherries, cedar and vanilla notes—clean, correct, fruity and forward. Medium to full-bodied, it's supple, almost creamy in feel, even if it's not overly concentrated, then finishes with some silky, tea-like tannins. - Joe Czerwinski

Another strong performer from the Elizabeth Spencer winery, sourced this time from long-term partner grower Hendricks Vineyard among other top Sonoma Coast sites. “Very fresh and inviting on the nose: raspberry, fresh cut flowers, black plum, with fruity crunch and real charm,” the judges said. “Some smoke and meat and tobacco notes on the palate, elegant oak, juicy wild strawberries and great length. One for the Burgundy lovers, this is classy, elegant, and restrained – a stunning Pinot Noir.”

This nononsense, nicely concentrated wine offers a firm, tannic texture, good blackberry, black olive and sage flavors and a medium body. It comes off a bit lean and edgy but will taste great with a steak. Or wait for it to mellow with some time in cool storage. Best from 2027. —J.G. 

Rich, true fruit, berry pie elegant.