You know how in House of the Dragon there’s that awesome dragon called Sea smoke? Well, turns out there’s a wine with the same name, and it’s pretty fire too (pun intended!). I recently got my hands on a bottle of the Sea Smoke Pinot Noir 2020, and let me tell you, it was quite an experience.
| Exact Wine Name: Sea Smoke Southing Pinot Noir Producer: Sea Smoke Vineyard Country/Region of Origin: USA, California, Santa Rita Hills Grape Varietal(s): 100% Pinot Noir Type: Red Wine Style: Light and Perfumed Vintage Year: 2020 ABV: Likely around 14.5% (common for this type of wine, but not explicitly stated) Price Range: $120 – $175 USD (prices vary by retailer) Awards Won: While specific awards for the 2020 vintage aren’t readily available, Sea Smoke wines consistently receive high praise from critics. Aroma Profile Details: Expect fruity and juicy aromas of alpine strawberry and raspberry compote, with elegant lavender and violet touches. Some reviewers also detect notes of black cherry, mulberry, char, and anise. Flavor Profile Details: This Pinot Noir offers raspberry paste, boysenberry, and light spice flavors. The palate is framed by ample tannins, yet it remains smooth and easy to drink. Peak Drinking Window: 2023 – 2030 (estimated based on typical Pinot Noir aging) Classification Status: Santa Rita Hills AVA (American Viticultural Area) |
Testing Notes
Finally cracked open that bottle of Sea Smoke Southing Pinot Noir 2020 that I’d been saving. Got to say, a real treat. The color was this deep, deep red, all the way to a ruby. I swirl it in the glass and pick up a whole bunch of aromas-cherries, raspberries-even a hint of flowers.
Took a sip, and, man, it was smooth. But not too smooth. There was this nice little bite to it that kept things interesting. Tasted like a mix of berries and spice; flavor hung around for a little while after I swallowed.
This is most definitely a food wine. We paired it with some roast chicken, and the match was perfect. The wine wasn’t cheap; honestly? Totally worth it. This is one of those bottles you save for when you want to celebrate or just want to make Friday night special. If you ever come across this bottle, grab it! You won’t be disappointed.
Pairing Your Sea Smoke Pinot Noir
Positives
- Elegant and complex flavor profile
- Well-balanced with good acidity and structure
- Highly rated by critics
- Age-worthy
Negatives
- Relatively high price point
- May not be readily available in all markets
Breakdown
- Drinkability 4.5/5
- Food Pairing 5.0/5
- Value for Money 4.0/5
- Personal Preference 5.0/5
A very food-versatile Pinot with bright acidity and a deep, complex flavorful. Light enough for poultry and fish, yet structured enough for richer fare-mushroom risotto comes to mind. Here are some of my top pairing recommendations:
Roasted Chicken or Turkey: A classic pairing for a reason! The red fruit in this wine melds beautifully with the savory flavors of the poultry.
Duck Confit: Rich, rich, rich duck is cut beautifully by the wine’s acidity and makes for a great match.
Mushroom Risotto: Earthy flavors mixed with creaminess? Yes, please!
Grilled Salmon: The high acidity cuts through the richness of the salmon and creates a delightful contrast.
Cheese Plates: Pinot Noir and cheese, a marriage made in heaven. Gruyère, Camembert, or Brie-like creaminess will make for an ultra-indulgent experience.
While this Pinot is rather versatile, here are a few things you might want to steer clear of:
Spicy Dishes: Too much heat may overpower this wine’s subtlety .
Heavy Red Meats with Strong Sauces: This overpowers it with flavors that are too robust.
Overpowering Flavors: Let the wine shine! Avoid pairing bold flavors that may mask its complexity.
Now, when exactly would this be a perfect occasion to open this bottle? Well, here are a few ideas:
Special Occasion Dinner: Anniversary? Birthday? Promotion? This wine calls for a reason to celebrate.
Romantic Evening: The wine is just right to set up the mood on that particular night.
A Celebration with Companions: Break open the love-the wine-with your closest friends.
The Quiet Night In: Sometimes, all one needs is a fine book, a comfortable chair, and a glass of delicious wine.
And finally, just a little note on fermentation:
The details are not provided, but this can only be speculated as being traditionally fermented Pinot Noir-meaning the grapes are fermented in stainless steel tanks with indigenous yeasts-the route taken by many high-quality Pinot Noirs. This would act to capture the natural flavors and aromas of the grapes, leading to a complex, expressive wine.
Sea Smoke Wines FAQs:
What kind of wine is Sea Smoke?
Sea Smoke is a winery in California. They only make two types of wine: Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. They’re known for making really good wines that are elegant and balanced.
Which Pinot Noir is best?
That’s tough to say! Everyone has different tastes. But Sea Smoke’s Southing Pinot Noir is definitely one of the best out there. It’s smooth, complex, and super tasty.
Is Pinot Noir a drinking wine?
Yes, definitely! Pinot Noir is a great wine for just sipping and enjoying. It also goes really well with food.
Where is Sea Smoke wine made?
Sea Smoke wine is made in a place called the Santa Rita Hills in California. It’s known for making excellent Pinot Noir.
What color is Sea Smoke Wine?
Sea Smoke Pinot Noir is a beautiful deep red color, almost like a ruby.
