Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Wine Enthusiast
The condensed pomegranate aroma on the nose of this bottling from Jim Clendenen is beautifully spiced with star anise, tobacco leaf, dried ginger and cinnamon. The palate shows chai and Indian spice— accents to the cranberry fruit that rides a fine line between ripe and tart. Although light in body, the tannic structure is firm enough to cellar for decades. Drink now–2033. Cellar Selection.
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Wilfred Wong of Wine.com
A powerful effort, the 2013 Au Bon Climat Estate Bottled Knox Alexander Pinot Noir covers all of the bases. This wine is rich without being overpowering. Perhaps one of the best effort from the Santa Maria Valley. Its flavors of red and blue fruits show a beautiful richness that stays long and lasting on the palate. Pairs well with grilled lamb shanks. (Tasted: May 24, 2017, San Francisco, CA)
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Similar in style, the 2013 Pinot Noir Knox Alexander has lots of sour cherry, forest floor, spice and underbrush notes in its Burgundian, supple, silky and polished personality. Its fine tannin, no hard edges and great finish all suggest it will evolve for a decade.
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.