Decanter 2022 Centennial Mountain Reviews

Decanter.com

2022 Centennial Mountain Carricante – 97 Points: Outstanding

“A stunning and genuinely surprising wine. I was amazed to learn that Carricante, a variety nearly exclusive to Mount Etna in Sicily, is being grown in the mountains of Sonoma. This is the only other place it’s planted, and both vintages I’ve tasted have been remarkable. 2022 is no exception: lifted aromas of candied ginger, fennel, and citrus lead into a palate that’s bright, slightly textured, and full of energy. The acidity is vibrant, and the salty finish evokes roasted, salted nuts. Honestly, this Carricante is better than many Sicilian examples I’ve tasted.”

2022 Centennial Mountain Reserve – 95 Points: Outstanding

“This reserve blend exhibits strong structure, thanks to its tannins and acidity. The nose is sweet and spicy, with an abundance of blackberries, dark cherries, and wild fennel, complemented by a peppery edge. In 2022, the wine is a blend of five varieties grown on the estate, led by Nerello Mascalese and Nebbiolo, with small parts of Nerello Cappuccio (Carignan), Barbera, and Zinfandel, resulting in a combination of power and nuance. The palate delivers black and red berry flavours layered with dried thyme, leather, and warm baking spices. An interesting bitter, citrus-zest twist lingers on the finish, adding tension to this bold, mountain-grown red.”

2022 Centennial Mountain Nebbiolo – 95 Points: Outstanding

“A vibrant garnet colour in the glass hints at this wine’s youthful energy. The structure is present but much more moderate compared to classic Piemontese Nebbiolo: gentler mouthfeel and acidity make it feel more approachable in its early days. The palate is generous in fruit, with dark cherries and wild berries balanced by savoury umami notes, sweet dried flowers, and a hint of herbs reminiscent of tarragon that add aromatic lift and complexity. While I haven’t explored many domestic Nebbiolos, this one feels like a genuinely thoughtful Sonoma take on the variety, with structure, lift, and real ageing potential.”

2022 Centennial Mountain Barbera – 93 Points: Highly recommended

“The 2022 Barbera opens with a mix of fresh and ripe red and black fruit, like sour cherries, blackberries, and plums. Herbal aromas are slightly savoury, reminiscent of fresh pepper, which is quite intriguing. The palate is plush, offering a generous mouthfeel that is balanced by vibrant acidity, resulting in a refreshing finish that makes this wine exceptionally approachable.”