The Somenos Pinot Noir opens with a perfumey earthy ripeness on the nose, and segues to blue fruits, whole-bunch savoriness, and ripe tannins on the palate. The wine is well structured and is drinking nicely right now. I expect it will age nicely over the next four to seven years.
I’ve heard that 2022 was a classic vintage for Cowichan Valley, and the Somenos Pinot Noir is evidence of that. This is a very good wine from winemaker Brent Rowland – and one of the early stage producers in Cowichan Valley committed to Pinot Noir – Averill Creek Vineyards.
Brent’s winemaking style is non-manipulative to a fault – Dry Farmed. Whote bunch. Nothing added. Native Yeast. Light Oak. Unfiltered and Unfined – You taste the place.
Read Brent’s very articulate Wine Character interview here.