Winemaker Notes
2015 marks our 2nd vintage doing what we said we'd probably never venture to do - make red wine. Specifically Pinot Noir.This bottling is a blend of the renowned Bien Nacido Vineyard & Solomon Hills Vineyard from the Santa Maria Valley AVA (hence, its concise name: 'SMV'). These are two vineyards that we have had the pleasure of working with via Chardonnay from since 2013.
These Pinot's are built to age but, will unravel themselves for enjoyment later in the year. Or decant and enjoy over a few days.
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.