Winemaker Notes
Aromas include classic strawberry and rhubarb, lightly framed in spicy oak with appealing cigar box notes. On the palate lively entry and texture of raw silk, finishing with warm grip with elegant tannins. Flavors of strawberry, rhubarb, raspberry and vanilla.
Professional Ratings
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Wilfred Wong of Wine.com
The 2018 Sanctuary Pinot Noir, Bien Nacido Vineyard, Santa Maria Valley shows a medium garnet color with soft brick edges, reflecting both its coastal origin and graceful evolution. The bouquet opens with garden spices and a chalky mineral note that speaks of Bien Nacido’s cool, windswept slopes, while the palate unfolds with layers of dried spice and freeze-dried strawberry carried by lively acidity and supple texture. Elegant yet quietly powerful, this wine finds its perfect match in Santa Maria–style grilled lamb, a Central Coast classic cooked over red-oak coals and seasoned with salt, black pepper, garlic, and rosemary — a pairing that captures the essence of the region in every smoky, savory, and satisfying bite. (Tasted: October 4, 2025, San Francisco, CA)
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.