98 points James Suckling: "Spices and dried strawberries with stone and mineral aromas as well as sandalwood and oyster shell. Some orange peel and lavender. Full-bodied with layers of very fine tannins that have a firm and direct nature. It goes on for minutes. So structured with tannins that spread across the palate. Needs time to soften and open. Try after 2028. (2/1/24)"
96 points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "The 2022 Pinot Noir Sea Field emerges from a site adjacent to Hirsch. Dark-toned fruit, spice, new leather, menthol and gravel infuse the 2022 with notable density and pure power. Like all the Raen wines, the Sea Field was done with 100% whole clusters, but the stems are pretty much buried by the sheer intensity of the fruit. The tannins are big and imposing. Drink 2025-2037 (Jan 2024)"
94 points Clive Pursehouse (Decanter): "The Seafield estate vineyard is located in remote pockets of Fort Ross-Seaview; this 4.8-acre monopole vineyard represents what RAEN believes is its most elegant terroir. The vineyard sits atop an ancient sea bed, dating back 200 million years, soaring high above the sea at more than 350m in elevation, just a few km from the Pacific Ocean and spicy with 1000ft and very close to the ocean. The aromatic sare gorgeously floral, as violets and dusty rose petals give way to hints of crushed strawberries, cranberries and mint. The sea-inspired minerality drives the palate forward as smoked sea salt melds with hints of pine sap and gorgeous red and black bramble fruits. The wine is framed by delicate minerality and loads of structure Drinking Window: 2024-2032. (Feb 2024)"
The 2022 Raen Sea Field Pinot Noir is a refined and elegant expression from Sonoma Coast. It opens with vibrant aromas of cherry, raspberry, and strawberry, complemented by hints of rose petal and earthy notes. On the palate, this Pinot Noir is silky and balanced, featuring flavors of ripe red berries, plum, and subtle spice. The finish is long and graceful, with lingering notes of fruit and a touch of earthiness. Perfect for pairing with dishes like roasted poultry or grilled salmon, this Pinot Noir is a testament to Raen’s commitment to quality and terroir. Available now at El Cerrito Liquor.
Raen Winery, located in the heart of California’s Sonoma Coast, is a distinguished producer of high-quality Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines. Founded with a commitment to capturing the unique terroir of the region, Raen Winery stands out for its dedication to artisanal winemaking and its pursuit of excellence.
The name "Raen" is derived from the founders’ family heritage, blending the personal with the professional in a way that reflects their deep connection to the land and their passion for winemaking. Raen was established by the talented siblings Carlo and Dante Mondavi, who are part of the renowned Mondavi family, known for their significant contributions to the American wine industry.
Raen Winery’s philosophy centers on producing wines that express the distinct characteristics of the Sonoma Coast, an area renowned for its cool climate, diverse soils, and challenging growing conditions. This region’s unique environment provides ideal conditions for cultivating high-quality Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, resulting in wines with vibrant acidity, nuanced flavors, and a strong sense of place.
The winemaking process at Raen Winery is characterized by a meticulous and hands-on approach. The team focuses on small-lot production, allowing for close attention to detail and an emphasis on quality. The grapes are hand-harvested and carefully sorted to ensure only the best fruit is used. Fermentation takes place in a combination of open-top fermenters and French oak barrels, with a focus on minimal intervention to allow the true character of the fruit to shine through.
For Pinot Noir, Raen Winery employs techniques such as cold soaking and gentle extraction to highlight the delicate, aromatic qualities of the grape. The resulting wines are known for their elegance, with notes of red fruit, floral accents, and earthy undertones. The Chardonnays from Raen are similarly crafted to showcase the purity and minerality of the fruit, with flavors ranging from crisp green apple and citrus to rich, buttery textures, depending on the vintage.
Raen Winery’s commitment to sustainability is evident in their vineyard practices and winemaking processes. The winery uses organic and biodynamic farming methods to nurture the land and ensure the long-term health of the vineyards. This approach not only benefits the environment but also contributes to the overall quality and authenticity of the wines.
Raen Winery’s portfolio includes several highly acclaimed wines, each reflecting the winery’s dedication to excellence and its deep connection to the Sonoma Coast. The wines have garnered praise from critics and enthusiasts alike for their complexity, balance, and sense of place.
In essence, Raen Winery represents a fusion of tradition and innovation, combining the Mondavi family’s rich winemaking heritage with a modern approach to producing exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. With its focus on quality, sustainability, and expression of terroir, Raen Winery continues to make a significant impact in the world of fine wine.