Winemaker Notes
The Pinots of Santa Maria Valley appellation are known for their fragrant, spicy, ethereal bouquet. This wine does not disappoint. Aromas of Bing cherry, cranberry, red currant, rose hip and dark chocolate are apparent with an intriguing scent of underbrush buried deeper in the wine. Flavors constantly evolve starting with raspberries and moving to dark cocoa. In the background is French oak vanillin and balanced tannins. It is very focused on the palate, in a tight, racy style.
Professional Ratings
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Jeb Dunnuck
Bright raspberries, sour cherries, exotic flowers, baking spices, forest floor, and leather notes all define the 2019 Pinot Noir Knox Alexander, a medium-bodied, lightly textured, elegant, complex Pinot Noir that's going to keep for a decade if well stored.
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Wine Enthusiast
Baked raspberry, sandalwood and wild herb aromas show on the slightly tart nose of this blend of Le Bon Climat and Bien Nacido vineyards. The palate lands with a rustic kick of tart pomegranate, salted game and a hint of leather, with herbs popping into the finish.
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.