Our fifth vintage from the Santa Rita Hills AVA spotlights a new Pinot Noir vineyard source for us: Rancho La Viña. Over the last two decades, the region has become one of California’s most influential Pinot Noir growing districts. Located in Santa Barbara County, the Sta. Rita Hills is part of the larger Santa Ynez Valley AVA. The hills of the district run east to west, which allows cool ocean breezes from the nearby Pacific Ocean to enter the valley, providing fairly cool microclimates – perfect for growing top-flight Pinot. Dense morning fog gives way to sunny afternoons, and loamy soils make Rancho La Viña and incredible cool climate growing site. In addition to 34.5 acres of top-quality Pinot Noir wine grapes, a variety of other crops are also grown on the ranch, which includes 126 acres of the best walnuts in California. We are excited to have been invited to work with this small, quality grower that really takes pride in their work – and feel that this vintage is a truly excellent wine.
The ’22 Sarah’s Vineyard Rancho La Viña Pinot Noir has a vast bright red fruit presence of cherry, raspberry, and strawberry. Along with the freshly picked red fruit aromas are hints of cinnamon and herbs. On the palate, all these elements come together and are complemented by baking spice and a hint of vanilla, reminiscent of a strawberry tart with a flaky pastry crust. This wine is well-balanced with smooth, silky tannins. The 2022 Rancho La Viña Pinot Noir pairs wonderfully with the enclosed recipe from Tim for Coq Au Vin.
Appellation: Santa Rita Hills
Vineyard: Rancho La Viña
Grower: Erik Mallea
Alcohol: 14.6
Cooperage: French oak, 35% new, 11 months
Production: 143
