Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Wine & Spirits
This is a supple pinot noir - mostly from hillside blocks at Bien Nacido - with plump curves of red fruit held against savory tobacco tones, carrying its bright acidity into a long, gentle, umami-laden finish. Decant it for braised duck.
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
All three of the Pinot Noirs were outstanding, and have classic, slightly Burgundian profiles, with notable structure and bright acidity. First, the 2011 Pinot Noir Knox Alexander is a beautiful Pinot Noir that has a clean, layered and classic feel. Possessing plenty of black cherry, rose petal, sappy flowers and earthy nuances, enjoy this medium-bodied, refined and elegant effort over the coming 5-7 years.
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.