Review: Simi 2019 Pinot Noir and 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon
Sonoma’s Simi bottles a range of whites and reds, sourced from vineyards throughout Sonoma County. Here’s a look at two of the winery’s more widely available bottlings.
2019 Simi Pinot Noir Russian River Valley – Instantly weird — though not corked — and hard to shake. Notes of mint chip ice cream, strawberry soda, and juicy table grapes all feel wildly out of place here, with a sort of cherry candy character emerging later in the game. Surprisingly sweet throughout, with notes of orange blossoms on the finish. If I was tasting it blind, would never have guessed this was pinot noir — and possibly not even a wine made from grapes. D / $45
2018 Simi Cabernet Sauvignon Alexander Valley – A 180, whew. Surprisingly bright and well-rounded, this wine is proof of Sonoma’s capabilities when it comes to cabernet. Sultry blackberry and raspberry quickly emerge, the more traditional currants tamped down on the palate, with hints of dark chocolate and some light prune elements emerging toward the finish. Notes of baking spice and a bit of licorice provide secondary nuance. Well done. A- / $50
2019 Simi Pinot Noir Russian River Valley
$45
