Date: 04/2025
Host: Adam Lee
My visit with Morét-Brealynn and Clarice Wine Co. was a vibrant journey through the elegance and depth of modern California winemaking. Each pour reflected a refined balance of fruit, texture, and place—expressing the precision of winemakers deeply connected to their vineyards. From the lifted, fresh notes in the Rosé to the structured complexity of Clarice’s Pinot Noir, this tasting highlighted a shared philosophy: making wines that are expressive, intentional, and unforgettable.
2024 Morét-Brealynn Rosé of Pinot Noir
Varietal: Pinot Noir Rosé
Nose: Strawberry, cherry, rose petal
Tasting Notes: Watermelon, fresh, clean
Characteristics: Easy drinking, bright
Pairing: Shrimp ceviche, watermelon salad, goat cheese tart
My Rating: 92
2023 Morét-Brealynn Lakeview Vineyard Pinot Noir
Varietal: Pinot Noir
Nose: Blueberry, violet, subtle oak
Tasting Notes: Blue fruit
Characteristics: Round, silky style, soft finish, balance, layered
Pairing: Grilled salmon, duck breast, mushroom risotto
My Rating: 95
2023 Clarice Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
Varietal: Pinot Noir
Nose: Black cherry, forest floor, clove
Tasting Notes: A little more tannic, deep, richer
Characteristics: Hermon, structure, layered
Pairing: Herb-crusted lamb, grilled portobello, aged cheddar
My Rating: 97
2023 Morét-Brealynn Cabernet Sauvignon
Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
Nose: Floral, red & black fruit
Tasting Notes: Vanilla, tobacco, rich oak
Characteristics: Big box
Pairing: Ribeye steak, BBQ short ribs, sharp blue cheese
My Rating: 96
2023 Etienne Essen Red Blend
Varietal: Red Blend (Southern Rhône style)
Nose: Ripe cherry, garrigue, pepper spice
Tasting Notes: Cherry
Characteristics: Rich texture, starts at lips then rounds at outside layers, double velvet-like richness
Pairing: Lamb tagine, roasted eggplant, Manchego
My Rating: 97
