Williams Selyem is one of California’s true Pinot Noir pioneers, born from a humble Russian River Valley garage and now celebrated worldwide for its elegant, vineyard‑driven wines. What began as a passion project in 1979 has grown into a benchmark estate known for precision, purity, and an unwavering commitment to expressing place. Today, the winery farms and partners with some of Sonoma County’s most coveted sites, crafting small‑lot Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Zinfandel that consistently earn critical acclaim. Under the stewardship of the Faiveley family and longtime winemaker Jeff Mangahas, Williams Selyem continues to honor its heritage while pushing quality ever higher—delivering wines that are both collectible and deeply expressive in the glass.
Perfumed with sun-ripened red and black fruits, this wine is a classic. Hints of peach cobbler are layered into the beautiful aromatics that add an interesting counterpoint along with notes of anise and fennel. Juicy and focused, the wine unravels on the palate with terrific tannin structure and a rich mouthfeel. These old vines are unmatched in their ability to produce a wine with both grace and power. Optimal drinking window – 2024-2031.
96 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate The 2021 Zinfandel Fanucchi-Wood Road Vineyard comes from dry-farmed old vines planted in 1890. Medium ruby-purple, it is bursting with aromas of wild berry jam, apricot, cinnamon and floral nuances. The medium-bodied palate features abundant, grainy tannins, fireworks of fresh acidity and a very long, ultra spicy finish. It's generous without going over the top and drinks well on its own, although it's an ideal match for spicy and grilled foods. Only 162 cases were made.
94 James Suckling A juicy red with dark fruit and blue fruit as well as ink and slate aromas (even some white peaches) that follow through to a full body with polished tannins. The energy takes off at the end from the natural acidity.
