Complex aromatics with big fruit focus and more subtle minerality and chaparral/herbal qualities as well. Generous on the palate with richness and fruit-driven flavors, with bright acidity that helps maintain freshness and balance. Silky texture with fine but firm tannins providing structure and length.
The Sta. Rita Hills AVA is significantly impacted by its proximity to the ocean (10 miles), consistent morning/evening fog, and steady afternoon winds. These cooling trends are not only perfectly suited to growing Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Grenache, and Syrah but also serve to prolong the growing season, allowing for heightened varietal flavor intensity. Additionally, the area’s cool climate and vineyards’ calcareous rock and sand help produce grapes with natural acidity and flavor balance.
The 2018 vintage is the stuff dreams are made of. The most ‘classic’ Santa Barbara County vintage of the decade with a cool, long growing season. A very ‘civilized’ harvest with no dramatic heat events or adverse weather. We were finally out of the half-decade drought thanks to the heavy rainfall in 2017, and vineyards were healthy and happy. Yields were moderate with some sites being slightly below average. The slightly low yields combined with extra ‘hang-time’ in 2018 resulted in super balanced and physiologically ripe fruit.
Pairs well with