As someone who has been blessed to taste and experience Pinot Noir in many forms over the years, I've developed a deep appreciation for how this grape can express itself differently depending on its clone. During a recent virtual tasting with Bouchaine Vineyards, I had the opportunity to revisit this concept through three single-clone Pinot Noirs—all from the same estate, yet each with a distinctly unique character.

What Is a Clone?

In the context of wine, a clone is a genetic variation of a grapevine, selected for specific traits like berry size, flavor profile, or how it performs in a certain climate. Pinot Noir is especially prone to mutation, which has led to the development of dozens of distinct clones across the globe.

Clonal selection allows winemakers to match specific vine traits to their vineyard's conditions and desired wine style. Some clones produce delicate, floral wines, while others contribute darker fruit, structure, or spice. By planting, fermenting, and bottling these clones separately, winemakers like Chris Kajani of Bouchaine can showcase the nuances that make each expression unique.

Meet Bouchaine Vineyards

Bouchaine is Napa Carneros' oldest continuously family-owned winery, located on the southern edge of Napa Valley with views of the San Francisco Bay. Their sustainably farmed, green-certified estate spans 100 acres in a region known for its cool breezes, fog, and moderate climate—conditions that Pinot Noir thrives in.

President and Winemaker Chris Kajani is celebrating her 10th year at Bouchaine and is known for her masterful work with Pinot Noir clones. With over a dozen planted on the estate, she selects only a few standout clones each year to bottle individually. The result? A rare opportunity to taste Pinot Noir through a precise, thoughtful lens.

The Wines: One Grape, Three Stories

2022 Bouchaine Swan Clone Pinot Noir – $70

Graceful. Balletic. Poised.

The Swan clone originated in California and is known for its elegance and aromatic flair. This wine offers notes of just-ripe strawberry, fresh cherry, and warm cinnamon. Imagine a young ballerina—this wine is light on its feet, yet structured. It's a wine that pirouettes on the palate.

Food pairing: Herb-roasted chicken or mushroom risotto

Mood pairing: A slow Sunday afternoon with no kids, Norah Jones in the background, and a cleared to-do list

Review for Real People: This is Pinot for people who like elegance over power. A single fresh flower over a room filled with roses. It reminded me of a love note from my first boyfriend—personal, thoughtful, honest, and beautiful.

2022 Bouchaine Calera Clone Pinot Noir – $95

Though its exact origin is debated, the Calera clone has developed a cult following in California. The 2022 Bouchaine is complex and mysterious, revealing new layers with each sip. Deep, nuanced, and elegant, it's a wine that forces you to stop and reflect.

Food pairing: Seared salmon with lentils or wild mushroom tart

Mood pairing: A quiet celebration—date night, anniversary, or a toast to yourself

Review for Real People: This one had me pausing mid-sip. It's the kind of wine you keep coming back to—not because it's flashy, but because it keeps opening up. This wine feels like a good conversation where everyone involved is vulnerable and unafraid to share their truths.

2022 Bouchaine Pommard Clone Pinot Noir – $70

Layered. Luxurious. Generous.

Juicy. Bold. Flirtatious.

With roots in Burgundy, the Pommard clone brings structure and intensity. Bouchaine's take is rich and succulent, full of deep cherry fruit and bold presence. It's expressive, generous, and impossible to ignore.

Food pairing: Grilled duck breast or barbecue-glazed pork ribs

Mood pairing: Don't drink this alone! Create a party around this wine—think dinner party with friends who appreciate the good stuff and have the best stories to share

Review for Real People: For those who like big, bold, and beautiful, this juicy wine is your next BFF. Don't get it twisted—it's not just big, it has muscle tone, making it sexy and appealing. The wine walks into the room and owns it. If you have a friend who "doesn't like Pinot Noir," blind taste them with this wine and see how quickly they apologize.

Planning a Trip to Napa? Visit Bouchaine

Bouchaine's estate in Carneros is one of the most serene and welcoming in Napa. With its gorgeous views, butterfly gardens, and immersive tasting experiences, it's a must-visit for wine lovers. I wrote about my visit a few years ago, and I still recommend it as one of the most beautiful and thoughtfully designed winery visits in California.

Have you experienced single-clone Pinot Noirs? What differences did you notice? Share your thoughts in the comments below.