Last Night’s First Sip Moment
The moment I poured Panthera into the glass, the color gave it away—dark, shiny ruby, the kind that tells you this Pinot has been spending time in the gym. Not a shy wine. Sonoma Coast fruit tends to give a little more depth anyway, but Panthera feels like it’s pushing the throttle without getting reckless.
First sniff? Red plum, raspberry, and Bing cherry—pretty much what the shelf tag hinted at, but with more intensity. There’s also this underlying warmth… a faint cocoa or spice note lurking in the background like it’s waiting for the right moment to join the party.
On the Palate—Smooth, Silky, Serious
Here’s what hit me:
- Red Plum & Cherry front and center
- Raspberry compote richness
- A little vanilla + baking spice from the oak
- Silky tannins that stay polite
- A clean acidity backbone that keeps everything lifted
It’s expansive without feeling heavy—like a well-executed rugby lineout where everyone knows their role and nobody drops the ball.
The Sonoma Coast Stamp
The acidity is the giveaway. Sonoma Coast fruit thrives in cool air rolling off the Pacific, and you can taste that freshness here. This is the kind of Pinot that still feels vibrant by the third glass (and yes, I checked thoroughly).
Food Pairing—A Real Surprise
The grilled salmon found its soulmate. The wine’s acidity cut through the fattiness, and the ripe red fruit gave the dish a little boost. I’d also pair Panthera easily with:
- Pork tenderloin
- Roasted chicken
- Cedar-planked trout
- Mushroom risotto
- Wood-fired pizza from Lakeshore Tavern
The Real Question: Is It Worth the $31.99?
I’ll be honest—Sonoma Coast Pinot under $35 can be a gamble. But Panthera over-delivered.
This drinks like a $45 bottle. No exaggeration. If you’re a fruit-forward Pinot fan who also likes structure, Panthera hits the sweet spot.
Would I Buy It Again?
Absolutely. This is one of those “have a couple on hand” bottles. It works for a casual dinner, a date night, or those evenings when West Michigan weather encourages you to stay inside, light a candle, and open something reliable.
