2006 Alesia (Rhys) Sonoma Coast Chileno Valley Pinot Noir

Alesia is a label owned and operated by Rhys Vineyards of Santa Cruz. Alesia and Rhys are owned by Kevin Harvey. Alesia wines are made from grapes purchased in the Sonoma Coast and in the Santa Lucia Highlands. Like Rhys estate wines, Alesia wines are primarly Pinot Noir. Syrah is also made under both labels.

Sonoma Coast AVA runs from San Pablo Bay in the south to Mendocino County in the north. It includes 7,000 vineyard acres and earned AVA status in 1987. Its proximity to the Pacific Ocean means it gets double the rainfall of nearby inland appellations and the ocean gives the appellation a relatively cool climate. Chardonnay and Pinot Noir can thrive in these conditions, and there are numerous producers making critically acclaimed Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

This red wine is relatively light and can pair with a wide variety of foods. The grape prefers cooler climates and the wine is most often associated with Burgundy, Champagne and the U.S. west coast. Regional differences make it nearly as fickle as it is flexible.