Freddy R. Troya

8.9

Caretaker – Pinot Noir 2016
Santa Maria Valley, Central Coast, California – USA 🇺🇸

Overview
A mature Pinot Noir from the cool-climate Santa Maria Valley, an AVA celebrated for its ocean-influenced breezes and long growing season. Even with nearly a decade of age, this bottle still shows charm and balance, proving the longevity potential of well-made Central Coast Pinot.

Aromas & Flavors
Notes of baked raisins, dried figs, and black cherry dominate, with subtle hints of spice and earthiness adding depth. Secondary characteristics from age bring a soft, dried fruit sweetness, leaning more toward warmth and roundness than fresh vibrancy.

Mouthfeel
Medium-bodied with softened tannins and a silky, mellow texture. The acidity has relaxed over time, but enough freshness remains to keep the wine affable and enjoyable to the very last drop.

Food Pairing
Perfect with roasted duck, mushroom risotto, or a simple charcuterie spread. Its aged character also makes it a fine companion to semi-hard cheeses.

Verdict
A pleasant surprise — still approachable, rounded, and enjoyable despite its maturity. While the prime window has passed, this 2016 Pinot shows that Santa Maria fruit holds up gracefully and rewards those who hold on just a little longer. Cheers! — a month ago

Rich Friedland

9.0

Nice body and notes for the price — 9 years ago

Morgan Gill

9.3

Quite good. Full-bodied. — 6 years ago

Philip Ginsberg

10

Caretaker 2.0. LOVE Paso Robles. — 8 years ago

Bryan Garcia

Sales Grand Cru Selections

8.9

Bottle going on 50 but in great condition! (👍 to its previous caretaker for storing it well) This comes from part of the Corton vineyards now being leased by DRC. — 11 years ago

justin johnson

9.0

Fruity with a creamy finish. — 8 years ago

Nick Rugen

9.0

John Duval previously caretaker of Penfolds Grange! The Shiraz and Grenache combine flawlessly on the palate, the Shiraz peppery and biting with Grenache berry tones. The Mourvedre is the hidden gem. Balanced and structured. — 8 years ago

Jeff Chaney

10

If a Unicorn had two heads... — 11 years ago