2021 Complicated Pinot Noir Monterey County 750ml

Complicated Pinot Noir 2021 – 27.8 Proof (13.9% ABV) | 750ml

Elegant, vibrant, and distinctly expressive of Monterey County, Complicated Pinot Noir 2021 showcases the bright fruit and earthy character that make California Pinot Noir so appealing. Bottled at 13.9% ABV (27.8 proof) in a 750ml bottle, this medium-bodied red offers aromas of cranberry, rose, wet soil, and thyme, followed by rich flavors of plum and berry layered with earthy soil and savory sage notes. The wine delivers a balanced combination of fresh fruit, subtle herbal complexity, and a smooth, approachable finish.

Key Details

Wine Type: Pinot Noir
Vintage: 2021
Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
Region: Monterey County, Central Coast, California
Alcohol Content: 13.9% ABV (27.8 Proof)
Bottle Size: 750ml
Style: Medium-Bodied • Fruity • Earthy • Balanced

Process & Production

Complicated Pinot Noir is produced from grapes grown in Monterey County, where the cool coastal climate helps preserve the natural acidity and freshness of Pinot Noir while allowing the fruit to develop ripe, concentrated flavors.

The 2021 vintage highlights the grape's characteristic combination of bright red fruit, earthy tones, delicate floral aromas, and savory herbal complexity, creating a wine that is expressive without becoming overly heavy.

Appearance

Bright ruby red with garnet highlights and a polished, translucent appearance.

Tasting Notes

Nose: Aromas of cranberry, rose, wet soil, thyme, and fresh red fruit create an earthy and inviting bouquet.

Palate: Medium-bodied and richly textured with flavors of ripe plum, red berries, cranberry, and subtle earthy soil supported by fresh acidity.

Finish: Smooth and lingering with savory sage, berry fruit, delicate herbs, and earthy mineral notes.

What Makes It Special

The 2021 Complicated Pinot Noir captures the balance between vibrant California fruit and the savory, earthy characteristics associated with Monterey County Pinot Noir. Its combination of cranberry and plum fruit with rose, thyme, soil, and sage creates a more layered profile than a simple fruit-forward Pinot Noir.

The 2021 vintage received an 89-point rating from Wine Enthusiast, which highlighted its cranberry, rose, wet soil, thyme, plum, berry, and sage characteristics. 

How to Enjoy

Serve slightly chilled to bring out the wine's bright fruit and acidity. Enjoy on its own or pair with roasted chicken, grilled salmon, pork tenderloin, mushroom dishes, burgers, charcuterie, soft cheeses, or light pasta dishes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What grape is used?
100% Pinot Noir.

Where is it from?
Monterey County in California's Central Coast.

What is the alcohol content?
13.9% ABV (27.8 Proof).

What is the bottle size?
750ml.

What does it taste like?
Cranberry, plum, red berries, rose, thyme, wet soil, and savory sage.

Is it a full-bodied Pinot Noir?
No. It is a medium-bodied Pinot Noir with bright acidity, expressive fruit, and earthy complexity.

Brand Story

Complicated focuses on approachable California wines that balance expressive fruit with the distinctive character of their growing regions. The 2021 Monterey County Pinot Noir demonstrates this philosophy by combining vibrant red fruit with floral, herbal, and earthy notes for a versatile wine that works equally well for casual enjoyment or with a meal.