Cline’s 2021 Fog Swept Pinot Noir is a cool-coastal-style Pinot from the Sonoma Coast, showing juicy red and black cherry, wild strawberry, and earthy minerality, wrapped in moderate oak. It has firm tannins and a slightly lean palate, making it a more food-friendly and somewhat rustic Pinot rather than ultra-silky. A solid value for Sonoma Coast fans seeking freshness and character.
Key Specs & Background
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Producer | Cline Cellars |
| Vintage | 2021 |
| Appellation | Sonoma Coast, California, USA |
| Varietal | Pinot Noir |
| Alcohol Content | ~14.0% ABV |
| Oak Aging | Aged ~10 months in about 35% new French oak barrels. |
Tasting Profile
| Aspect | Notes |
|---|---|
| Aroma / Nose | Aromas of dark plums, oak spices such as cloves, and maybe a hint of mushroom or forest-floor earth. Also wild strawberry and black cherry appear. |
| Palate / Taste | The palate shows juicy fruit (black cherry, wild strawberry), red cherry & cranberry, with earthy undertones like mushroom / leaf, some bittersweet chocolate or black tea hints. |
| Texture & Tannins | Medium-bodied; tannins are firm and drying, giving a bit of structure. Acidity is noticeable, helping give snap and lift. |
| Finish | The finish is decent length, with the fruit fading gradually into earth and oak spice; perhaps a bit leaner on the tail compared to richer Pinots. |
Critic Score & Reviews
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Wine Enthusiast gave it 88 points.
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Flavor note from Wine Enthusiast (Jim Gordon): “Oak spices, dark plums and cloves fill the aroma… before a snappy, rather lean palate reveals cranberries, sour cherries and earthy notes. The tannins are firm and drying, so it’s not a light wine.”
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Vivino average: ~ 4.0 / 5 from ~80+ ratings.
What Makes It Special
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The “Fog Swept” name reflects its Sonoma Coast climate: frequent fog, cool summer temperatures, large diurnal shifts. These conditions help preserve acidity, freshness and prevent over-ripening.
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Moderate use of oak (35% new French oak) gives structure and spice without overwhelming the varietal’s fruit and earth character.
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It leans toward a classic, more restrained style rather than ultra-rich or heavily oaked Pinot—good for people who prefer “taste of place” and moderate weight.
Strengths & Things to Consider
Strengths:
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Excellent value for Sonoma Coast Pinot with solid fruit + character.
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Works well with food due to its acidity and firm tannins—pairs nicely with lighter meats, mushrooms, poultry, etc.
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Captures the cooler coastal style well; fans of earthy, herbal, cherry-driven Pinot will appreciate.
Serving & Pairing Suggestions
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Serve at about 55-60°F (13-15°C) to preserve freshness and bring out aromatics.
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Use Burgundy-style glassware for best expression.
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If possible, decant 20-30 minutes to let oak and earth notes settle and fruit open.
Food Pairings:
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Roast chicken with herbs
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Grilled salmon or lighter red meats
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Mushroom risotto or pasta with earthy mushrooms
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Duck breast with cherry or berry sauce
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Soft cheeses ( Brie, Camembert ) or aged goat’s cheese
Reviews
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