Review: Wines of Sonoma-Cutrer, Early 2024 Releases
Review: Wines of Sonoma-Cutrer, Early 2024 Releases
Sonoma-Cutrer’s early 2024 releases are here, as we take a fresh look at two chardonnays and a pinot noir from this Russian River Valley icon.
2021 Sonoma-Cutrer The Cutrer Chardonnay Russian River Valley – The Cutrer is always a bold experience from Sonoma-Cutrer, and this aggressive release is no different. Big notes of peach and apricot lead the way to a brisk midpalate of lemon curd and green apples. Some coconut appears on the back end, lending a vague tropicality to the experience, along with a healthy slug of barrel-driven vanilla. The wine to have with Asian cuisine or a spice-laden filet of fish. B+ / $31 [BUY IT NOW FROM TOTAL WINE]
2022 Sonoma-Cutrer Chardonnay Sonoma Coast – A big, creamy, and downright quaffable chardonnay, this 2022 bottling born on the Sonoma Coast eschews the density and biting pungency found in The Cutrer in favor of a more easygoing but equally fruit-forward experience. Lemony without being overly acidic, orange-infused without being candylike, and vanilla-scented without coming close to approaching “oaky buttery,” it’s a best of all worlds situation that is improved even further by its price tag: Under $20 in some cases. Pick up a case or two now to get you through the scorching summer. A / $20
2021 Sonoma-Cutrer Pinot Noir Russian River Valley – Previous expressions of this wine have been on the punchy, blown-out side, but this 2021 release settles into a more vibrant groove quickly and efficiently. Cherry and blueberry notes dominate, side by side, with light tannins and a layer of vanilla on top. Moderated acidity keeps the wine from devolving into fruit bomb territory, and aids the emergence of a slight note of tobacco and anise on the finish. Versatile solo or with a range of foods. A- / $36
2021 Sonoma-Cutrer Pinot Noir Russian River Valley
$36
