Winemaker Notes
Produced from our four best barrels of Sierra Madre Vineyard in a truly outstanding vintage. Aromas of fresh boysenberry, plum and black raspberry on the nose. Beautifully balanced on the palate with plum, pomegranate, rhubarb, and hibiscus notes, touched by a hint of mint and watermelon rind - followed by a long and undulating finish. A pinot noir with great aging potential.
Professional Ratings
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Wine Enthusiast
There is a strong floral character to the nose of this single vineyard bottling, with pungent carnation and violet as well as red currant, black raspberry and incense. The sip is energetic with tart acidity, yet the mouthfeel is soft, creamy and nearly chalky, showing cranberry and cherry tomato flavors.
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.