Review: David Bruce 2019 Chardonnay and 2021 Pinot Noir
A visit to David Bruce requires a bit of a trek along winding roads in the Santa Cruz Mountains — but the journey is worth it, as David Bruce has a long history of making excellent wines. (It was even included in the famous 1976 Judgment of Paris.)
The two wines covered below are current releases, both made from estate fruit. Thoughts follow.
2019 David Bruce Chardonnay Santa Cruz Mountains Review
This is a boldly oaky chardonnay, which surprised me not just because of its mountainous origins, but also because of its age — now 6 years since harvest. Little has mellowed since bottling, and the wine pours on candied vanilla notes alongside a very sweet and fruity core. Notes of guava are particularly heavy, followed by pineapple, mango, and lemon curd — then a bit of coconut on the finish. Sharp throughout and full-bodied, this is a wine that is never wanting for flavor. It’ll need an appropriate food pairing to avoid overpowering it, however. B+ / $49
2021 David Bruce Pinot Noir Santa Cruz Mountains Review
A slightly savory expression of pinot noir, featuring note of kalamata olives, red plums, and cherries — all laced with exotic spices that evoke a night at the kasbah. (The Sharif don’t like it!) Elements of coriander, saffron, and parsley layer atop the more fruit-forward palate, with a surprising finish that is lightly sweetened with maple — perhaps fenugreek — notes. A solid pairing with a wide range of dishes. A- / $55
2021 David Bruce Pinot Noir Santa Cruz Mountains
$55
