2021 La Encantada Pinot Noir
Complex and balanced, influenced by fog and cool maritime winds
$70
Retail
$56
About the Wine
The La Encantada Vineyard is situated approximately nine miles from the Pacific Ocean in the cool-climate Sta. Rita Hills AVA. Located off Santa Rosa Road in the southern valley of the appellation, this highly praised vineyard was planted by Richard Sanford in 2001. Notable for the rare east–west orientation of the valley, this location is influenced by the fog and cool, relentless marine winds from the mighty Pacific Ocean to the west. This vineyard source consistently produces a signature wine with a unique character, elegance, and a deft balance lending a true sense of place.
Tasting Notes
Varietal Composition
- % Pinot Noir
Body
Appearance
Medium-concentrated ruby red core that brightens at the rim.
Aroma
Aromatic and complex with notes of blackberry, raspberry, Bing cherry, vanilla, baking spice, and dried rose petal.
Palate
The palate shows notes of tart plum, cranberry, and pomegranate on entry, with savory notes of chanterelle mushroom, herbes de Provence, and toasted oak filling the midpalate. The wine is perfectly balanced with fresh acidity, finely textured tannins, and a lengthy finish of sustained fruit and spice notes.
Key Features
Appellation
Sta. Rita Hills
Fermentation
100% destemmed in small fermenters, punched down twice daily
Maturation
Barrel-aged for 10 months in French oak (35% new)
Alcohol
14.2%
SUGGESTED FOOD PAIRINGS
Grilled Lamb Chops
The savory notes in the wine, along with the medium body and balanced acidity, would complement the rich flavors of the grilled lamb chops.
