
2021 Three Sticks Gap’s Pinnacle Gap’s Crown Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
Former Chateau St. Jean winemaker Don Van Staaveren was Three Sticks early winemaker and Bob Cabral, who had been the winemaker and general manager for Williams Selyem Winery joined Three Sticks in 2014. Prema Kerollis is one of the co-founders and general manager with winemaking under the astute guidance of Ryan Prichard.
The 2021 Three Sticks Gap’s Pinnacle Gap’s Crown Pinot Noir is one of those Van Gogh masterpieces embodying the artistry that defines Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir. This wine glistens with a dark garnet rim that reflects both the richness and finesse lying just beneath the surface. The aromas immediately draw you into the glass, offering a lush bouquet freshly baked blueberry pie, macerated red cherries and black raspberry coulis along with a hint of sagebrush. It evokes a sense of place, grounding the wine in its cool-climate terroir.
As the wine unfolds on the palate, it is nothing short of opulent with a plush mouthfeel. The fruit is ripe yet restrained leading the charge with an intensity that is both vibrant and seamless. Juicy black plums are intermingled with savory undertones and a whisper of forest floor mixed with black Asian spices. The tannins remain round and silky, providing structure along with a line of racy acidity that adds freshness and balance. This wine walks the line between power and grace and although stunning in its youth, has an unmistakable future potential in the years to come.
By W Peter Hoyne