Winemaker Notes
This wine is charming and bright with aromas of mixed berries, cranberry and deep cherry accented by a touch of baking spices and subtle earth tones. On the palate, a solid core of rich Pinot Noir expression is surrounded by hints of blackberry, tart cherry and spice. Well-balanced, velvety tannins give way to a bright, appealing finish. While the drinkable style of this wine makes it enjoyable upon release, additional bottle age will promote even more depth and complexity.
Pinot Noir is the second-most planted grape in Santa Barbara County, just behind Chardonnay. It thrives in cooler areas of the region, namely in the of the Sta. Rita Hills, which is part of Santa Barbara’s larger Santa Ynez Valley sub-appellation. Thought for decades to be too cool for viticulture, Sta. Rita Hills began to gain notoriety in the 1970’s, thanks to the pioneering work of Richard Sandford and Michael Benedict, among others.
Santa Barbara Pinot Noir dances across the palate with vivid red fruit and spice. Precision, bright acidity, elegance and fruit-driven silkiness make Santa Barbara Pinot delightfully enjoyable, whether on their own or with a variety of dishes.
WWH143731_2014 Item# 271039