Sea Floored is A Lighter California Pinot

This Pinot Noir was pale ruby in color with medium aromas of red cherry, cranberry, raspberry, cassis, violet, strawberry, and plum.

On the palate, it was dry with high acidity and alcohol, medium(-) smooth tannin, medium(+) body, and medium flavor intensity and finish. We had notes of red cherry, cranberry, cedar, leather, red plum, blueberry, raspberry, and vanilla.

While we often favor big, bold California Pinot Noirs, Sea Floored gave us a nice break from that with refreshing acidity and soft tannins while still having a fuller body that you would expect from the state.

Still, the cooling influences in the region helped keep the wine in a dominant red fruit category, with minor notes of dark fruit, notably blueberry, starting to develop. Well balanced and refreshing all around!

Pinot Noir Food Pairing – Mediterranean Bowls

We paired this Pinot Noir with a mixed bowl of grains, roasted vegetables, and Mediterranean flavored sauces. The flavors in the wine held without much change, which went quite well with the food.

While we often look for some flavor changes with food pairings, sometimes holding on to the primary flavors on the palate is enjoyable as well, and we got that with this bottle.

Score 3 / 5

We would buy a glass of this one.

El Pino Club’s Sea Floored showcases how some climates in California can still hit the classic notes of Pinot Noir without being overbearing. Although we do often like the bigger, bolder styles found nearby, for those who want a refreshing bottle more reminiscent of European style over California, this one is for you. We’d never say no to a glass if we can find it.

El Pino Club is located at 5110 Hwy CA-128 in Geyserville, California. We received this bottle from our Picked by Wine.com subscription and enjoyed it in 2024.