Today, we have a selection of wines submitted by the PR firm WineSpokenHere.com. This collection features six wines from three different producers, with some coverage of an emerging category in our industry: non-alcoholic wines.
The wines from The Donum Estate come exclusively from their Carneros estate vineyard, located at the southern end of Sonoma. This region benefits from cool breezes and fog from San Pablo Bay, creating ideal conditions for growing Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The long, gentle growing season allows for slow, even ripening, which helps preserve natural acidity and develop layered, expressive flavors. The vineyard’s clay loam soils and sustainably farmed blocks contribute to the depth and character of Donum’s wines, which include their elegant Chardonnay, complex Pinot Noir, and vibrant Rosé of Pinot Noir. More coverage on The Donum Estate is coming over the next few months when I turn my attention to Sonoma County.
Additionally, we are amongst the first to try and review a new value-driven Pinot Noir called Pacific Veil, a multi-county blend sourced from San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Monterey counties.
The rise of non-alcoholic wines marks a significant shift in how we approach pleasure, wellness, and inclusivity at the table. As more consumers prioritize mindfulness, health, and balance—without sacrificing the rituals of celebration or connection—non-alcoholic wines provide a compelling solution to a modern question: how can we enjoy the full sensory experience of wine without alcohol? This growing category is not just for those who are abstaining; it reflects a broader movement toward moderation, where individuals choose presence over excess. From weekday dinners to baby showers and work lunches to recovery journeys, non-alcoholic wines allow more people to partake in meaningful moments while enjoying a sip.
With that said, Bolle has produced some of the best non-alcoholic wines that I’ve ever tried, and it continues to win acclaim at wine competitions around the US.
All the wines were tasted in my home office after settling in the cellar for approximately two weeks following their shipping and delivery.
Wines tasted in this report:
2022 The Donum Estate Carneros Chardonnay
Pale straw in the glass, the 2022 Chardonnay starts a bit shy aromatically, slowly revealing lemon rind and almond skin. On the palate, it’s medium-bodied with subtle richness—marzipan and white melon come forward, supported by a gentle phenolic grip and clean mineral tension. A soft, spiced finish brings in hints of Asian pear, revealing its subdued elegance. 90 Drink 2025-2031
2024 The Donum Estate Rosé of Pinot Noir
Pale salmon in color and full of charm, this Rosé walks a fine line between fruit and earth. Aromas of strawberry, cherry skin, and Meyer lemon are layered with an intriguing touch of turned earth. There’s a slight prickle on the palate from residual CO₂, so a splash decant and extra chill are recommended. Light to medium-bodied and delightfully fresh. 90 Drink 2025-2028
2022 The Donum Estate Carneros Pinot Noir
This Carneros Pinot leans darker and brooding, with notes of cherry skin, plum compote, lavender, and bitter black tea. There’s a firm tannic grip and a tightly wound finish that begs for food—and perhaps another year or two in the bottle. Enjoy it from 2026 to 2032 with a hearty pairing. At present, it feels unresolved. 90 Drink 2026-2032
2023 Pacific Veil Pinot Noir
Bright, juicy, and effortlessly charming, the 2023 Pacific Veil Pinot Noir opens with an inviting nose of cherry cola, black raspberry, and spiced plum. Medium-bodied and approachable, it’s built for the table—showing a soft phenolic grip and lingering tannins that keep things interesting through the finish. It over-delivers for the price and is ready to drink now through 2030. A versatile, easygoing Pinot that punches above its weight class. 90 Drink 2025-2030
Bolle Non-Alcoholic Blanc de Blancs
Clean, refreshing, complex, zesty and citrus driven on the nose with hints of petrol, lemon zest, white peach and muskmelon. Lighter-bodied and refreshing, the palate is clean and crisp, offering notes of yellow apple and citrus blossom before revealing a delightful frothy mousse. While for me, many nonalcoholic wines fall short and thin, this is hands down the best non-alcoholic wine I’ve ever experienced. I want some more! 91 Drink 2025-2027
Bolle Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Rosé
An impressive non-alcoholic option, the Bolle Rosé is bright and lively with notes of strawberry lemonade and cherry skin. Zippy acidity electrifies the palate, making this feel as precise and balanced as its Blanc de Blanc sibling. The finish is fresh, succulent, and totally satisfying—an excellent option for any occasion. 90 Drink 2025-2027
