Winemaker Notes
-Wine Enthusiast
With the 2002 vintage, we took what was already a low-yielding vineyard, which have been farming since 2000, and reduced the crop even more radically to increase the flavor concentration in the berries. When we hand harvested the grapes-from September 10 to October 4-we ended up with just over one ton per acre. The quality was so high and the flavors so distinctive that we felt this wine deserved to be named for the vineyard-located at the intersection of Clark Avenue and Telephone Roads. The wine has a dark scarlet, opaque color. Its aromas suggest cranberry with spicy notes of peppercorn, cumin and ginger. In the mouth, pepper-spice notes give way to strawberry flavors and firm acidity. The tannins are silky but firm, the texture is mouthcoating. The long, lingering finish combines notes of spicy tobacco and strawberry with sweet, toasty oak and hints of black licorice.
Professional Ratings
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.