Winemaker Notes
Clone 4 produces aromas and flavors of ripe grapes, cherries, pomegranates, cinnamon and sweet vanilla. The underlying earthy character is present and a silky texture in the mouth flows into a long vanilla and oak spice finish. Pairs well with intensely flavorful smoked brisket slathered with BBQ sauce and ropped with a simple cabbage slaw is a delicious treat, especially when enjoyed alongside the Clone 4 Pinot Noir's red fruit, baking spice and earthy notes.
Professional Ratings
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Wilfred Wong of Wine.com
COMMENTARY: The 2016 Cambria Estate Vineyard & Winery Pommard Clone 4 Pinot Noir is vibrant and long. TASTING NOTES: This wine offers excellent aromas and flavors of tart strawberries and wild herbs. Enjoy it with grilled salmon. (Tasted: October 5, 2020, San Francisco, CA)
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.