2016 Failla Pinot Noir Occidental Ridge Vineyard
Market price
Buying options
Tasting notes
A ripe, fruit-loaded effort, the 2016 Pinot Noir Occidental Ridge is certainly one of the more generous, opulent wines by Failla. Giving up plenty of raspberry fruits, spice, and floral characteristics, it’s medium to full-bodied, beautifully balanced, and has a rocking texture that keeps you coming back to the glass. It’s a sexy Pinot Noir that has a touch of La Tâche-like charm and character. Don’t miss it! Readers looking for a serious lineup of single vineyard Pinot Noirs and Chardonnay that have a distinctly Burgundian vibe need to check out these releases from Ehren Jordan and Savanna Wright. Failla owns prime terroirs on the Sonoma Coast, as well as has access to some of the best vineyards in the region. While these aren’t for those craving big, powerful wines, they have plenty of intensity as well as singular profiles. In addition to the Sonoma releases, Jordan’s Oregon releases and a few Rhône variety wines are also included in this report.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jeb Dunnuck
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2016 Pinot Noir Occidental Ridge needs time to come together, but it appears to have terrific potential. Intensely savory and lifted, the 2016 shows quite a bit of stem influence from the 30% whole clusters. At the same time, there is more than enough fruit depth and persistence to make me feel all the 2016 needs is more time in bottle.
Pale to medium ruby-purple in color, the 2016 Pinot Noir Occidental Ridge has black raspberries and red plums on the nose with touches of tilled soil, fungi and tar. The palate is medium-bodied and elegantly styled with gentle fruit matched by a racy acid line and chewy texture, finishing long and earthy. 352 cases produced.