Winemaker Notes
A micro-batch Pinot Noir from the coastal Santa Maria Valley, loaded with pure fruit aromas and sleek minerality.
Professional Ratings
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Wine Enthusiast
Aromas of raspberry, bay leaf, sage and thyme reflect the chaparral that surrounds this vineyard on the western edge of the appellation. A fresh pomegranate flavor is lifted by Earl Grey tea, lavender and white- and green-peppercorn spice on the palate.
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Jeb Dunnuck
The 2019 Pinot Noir Amor Fati Murmur Vineyard is cut from the same cloth, yet shows a slightly cooler style in its cherries, black raspberries, violets, and foresty aromas and flavors. Medium-bodied on the palate as well, it’s nicely concentrated, has good structure, and should have 7-8 years or so of prime drinking.
Rating: 92+
Santa Maria Valley lies mainly in northern Santa Barbara County, with a small portion of it overlapping southern San Luis Obispo County. It is close to the Pacific, and runs east-west, which means warmer air in the eastern end draws cool air off the ocean in the west, and brings it through the valley. This effect, combined with abundant sunshine, lengthens the growing season. The longer growing season leads to long hang time, which promotes both ripeness and optimal acidity levels in grape berries. As early as the 1970’s, Santa Maria Valley was recognized as being a superior source of wine grapes, certainly including Chardonnay and Syrah. But arguably the top variety here is Pinot Noir.
Originally a domain primarily of growers, including the Miller Family of the justifiably famous Bien Nacido Vineyard, this AVA is now home to over 30 wineries. Santa Maria Valley Pinot Noir consistently offers full flavors of cherry, strawberry and raspberry, often accompanied by notes of spice, cola, vanilla and earth. They show impressive balance and elegance, as well as great versatility with food.