James Suckling is one of the world’s leading wine critics. He was the former Senior Editor and European Bureau Chief of Wine Spectator before spearheading his own independent publication.
JamesSuckling.com tasted through our first 2021 vintage releases and the wines had universal acclaim.
Jensen Reserve Society Wines
96 points
2021 Niclaire Pinot Noir
California AVA
“A tight and focused pinot noir with finesse and polish. Clearly the best pinot from this producer and a selection of top wines from its vineyards in various Central Coast appellations. Medium-bodied with an integrity and firmness on the palate. Subtle flavors and a bright and silky-textured finish. Drinkable but better in two or three years.” JamesSuckling.com
94 points
2021 Diana’s Chardonnay
California AVA
“The density to this in the center palate is impressive while it remains tensioned and compact with plenty of cooked apple, citrus and light caramel character. Toasted nuts, too. Complex and fascinating. Opens nicely in the glass. A blend of the best chards from Testarossa. Drink or hold.” JamesSuckling.com
Single Vineyard & Appellation Wines
94 points
2021 Rosemary’s Vineyard Chardonnay
Arroyo Grande Valley AVA
“A poised and tensioned chardonnay with sliced cooked peaches, light caramel and stone. It’s full and tight with a freshness and brightness yet it delivers lots of flavor and intensity. Drink or hold.” JamesSuckling.com
94 points
2021 Graham Family Vineyard Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley AVA
“Mix of red and wild berries here with hints of blood orange, rosemary blossom and pomegranate. Medium- to full-bodied with creamy tannins and bright acidity. Juicy and vivid with a polished, lengthy finish. Drink or hold.” JamesSuckling.com
94 points
2021 Rincon Vineyard Pinot Noir
Arroyo Grande Valley AVA
“Interesting aromas of sliced strawberry, smoke, and peach follow through to a full body with medium velvety tannins and a fresh finish. Shows excellent structure. Drink after 2025.” JamesSuckling.com
93 points
2021 Sanford & Benedict Vineyard Chardonnay
Santa Lucia Highlands AVA
“Plenty of candied apple with caramel and nougat character as well as hints of smoke and apple puree. Full-bodied with phenolic tension and layers of ripe fruit, hay and stone. It’s very attractive in an opulent style.” JamesSuckling.com
93 points
2021 Sierra Mar Vineyard Chardonnay
Santa Lucia Highlands AVA
“Lemon curd, apple pie and light butterscotch aromas follow through to a medium to full body, with fresh acidity and a tight and flavorful finish. Slightly salted at the end. Drink or hold.” JamesSuckling.com
93 points
2021 Garys’ Vineyard Pinot Noir
Santa Lucia Highlands AVA
“High-toned pinot noir with ripe strawberries and fresh flowers such as lilacs with some dust. Full-bodied and layered with velvety tannins and an orange peel and dried strawberry aftertaste. Grilled meat, too. More fruit-forward than some. Drink or hold.” JamesSuckling.com
93 points
2021 Rosemary’s Vineyard Pinot Noir
Arroyo Grande Valley AVA
“Lovely purity of pinot noir fruit with some smoke, citrus and hot stone character on both the nose and palate. Full-bodied but not over done with a richness and freshness at the same time. Drink or hold.” JamesSuckling.com
93 points
2021 Sierra Mar Vineyard Pinot Noir
Santa Lucia Highlands AVA
“Plenty of dried strawberry with dried herbs such as sage, as well as citrus rind follow through to medium to full body with firm tannins and a fresh finish. I like the dried earth and Mediterranean undertones here. Drink in a year or two.” JamesSuckling.com
93 points
2021 Soberanes Vineyard Pinot Noir
Santa Lucia Highlands AVA
“Bright and savory with redcurrants, sour cherries, red licorice and orange peel. Medium-bodied and sleek, but structured and compact. Fresh and crunchy red berries with hints of dried herb and citrus undertones. Drink or hold. ” JamesSuckling.com
93 points
2021 Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
“Notes of ripe strawberries and cherries with spicy herbs, hibiscus and crushed rocks. Medium- to full-bodied, tense and concentrated with red fruit character and savory juiciness. Bright finish. Drink or hold.” JamesSuckling.com
