2012 Occidental (Kistler) "Occidental Station - Cuvée Catherine" Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir

“The 2012 Pinot Noir Occidental Station Cuvée Catherine has closed down significantly since I last tasted it a few months back, which is probably good news for its long-term potential. Deep veins of underlying minerality give the Cuvée Catherine its structure, power and energy. At the same time, the 2012 is not a huge or obvious wine, at least not today. The flavor profile is distinctly red-toned, with hints of iron and mint that add nuance. (AG)” (01/2015)

“2012 was a warm growing season with a good crop, full clusters, plenty of sunshine and higher alcohols, Steve Kistler remembers. It was also the last year the Occidental wines were crafted at the Kistler Vineyards winery in Forestville. The 2012 Pinot Noir Occidental Station Vineyard Cuvée Catherine is maturing gracefully, with a pale ruby color and dramatically unfurling aromatics: red plums and pomegranate give way to woodsmoke, mushrooms, juniper and forest floor. Medium-bodied, it floods the mouth with generous layers of fruit and earth. It’s structured by powdery tannins and mouthwatering acidity and has a long finish streaked with botanical tones. (EB)” (01/2025)

“Beautifully crafted, dense and structured, with tight acidity and firm focus, this gushes with zesty wild raspberry, blackberry and savory underbrush notes that unfold to reveal layers of flavor and dimension. (JL)” (08/2016)