2022 Neely Pinot Noir 'Upper Picnic Block'

100% Pinot Noir (Dijon clone 777); vines planted in 2006. Fermented in stainless steel; aged 10 months in 25% new French oak. 13.8% alcohol. 168 cases made.  

Neely is a bit of a hidden gem in the Santa Cruz Mountains appellation, albeit with some serious pedigree. Set across 240 acres with just 16 acres planted close to the town of Portola Valley, the Neely family has owned this place since 1995, their Spring Ridge Vineyard originally planted in 1980 by the Varner brothers to Chardonnay and Gewurztraminer. 

95 points, Wine Enthusiast. "This bottling is super fresh and vibrant and yet shows a tightness as well on the nose, where aromas of raspberry, mint, star anise and cinnamon work in harmony. The palate is juicy with raspberry sorbet and white pepper flavors."

95 points, Jeb Dunnuck. "From a block planted in 2000, the 2022 Pinot Noir Estate Spring Ridge Vineyard Upper Picnic Block is the most savory and earthy wine in the lineup, balanced in acidity and tannin with supple layers highlighted in cardamom spice, blood orange, and rose. Some years the winemakers employ whole-cluster fermentation on this block but not this vintage, capturing both firm tannin and an enduring brightness and freshness in the wine, which should do well in the cellar another 8-10 years."