Winemaker Notes
The Bien Nacido Vineyard is located in the Santa Maria Valley, and Block 43 is planted to Dijon 667 and Dijon 777. The fruit is harvested and whole berry de-stemmed into small, open-top fermenters. The fruit sees a 2-day cold soak before the fermentation process begins, lasting 10-14 days. The wine is aged in 100% French oak, of which a third is new for 17 months. The finished wine is bottled without filtration or fining.
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Sourced from a southwest-facing incline situated below Block 8 planted to Dijon clones in 2006, the 2021 Pinot Noir Block 43 Bien Nacido Vineyard offers the darkest profile of the Foxen Pinot Noirs. Black cherry, dark chocolate and floral accents lead to a rich, svelte, softly textured palate lined with a subtle spine of acidity that adds a balancing lift. The finish is focused and grippy, framed with fine-grained, well-delineated tannins that will benefit from some time to integrate.
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Wine Spectator
Plump and juicy in feel, with loganberry and mulberry notes framed by light chalky threads, this red is backed by hints of anise and singed balsam wood on the finish. Drink now through 2030.
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.