Winemaker Notes
In keeping with the traditional Dierberg style, the 2005 Pinot Noir is an immense wine, yet one that retains great balance, nerve and elegance. Dark raspberry and wild blackberry notes are accented by the characteristic "sauvage" note of our special terroir. Flavors lean towards the fresh raspberry end of the spectrum, with sexy mocha and complex forest floor nuances. As always, our Dierberg Pinot Noir features surprising grip and structure for such a ripe wine. Enjoy it now for its wild fruit and explosiveness or cellar for several years to bring out the subtle complexites lurking just below its surface.
92 Points
"Beautifully crafted, rich, intense and elegant,
with a stylish mix of earthy raspberry, wild berry and blackberry fruit that's complex and
concentrated, offering depth and length." –
James Laube,
The Wine Spectator
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.