2018 Pinot Noir, Fiddlestix Vineyard

Our winemaking philosophy has always been in search of the truest example of wine grapes, and the Fiddlestix Vineyard in Sta. Rita Hills delivers. A Pinot Noir that is nurtured by the sun but moderated by the Pacific Ocean in terroir that is uncompromised and unique.

Once again, meticulous farming and Mother Nature allowed us to pick at peak ripeness. We fermented it in a combination of small (250 gal) concrete egg, Acacia barrels, neutral French oak barrels and small stainless-steel barrels. We stirred each barrel by hand during the 10 months of fermentation and aging, which adds a touch of creaminess. We kept it chilly in the cellar for a long cool fermentation, allowing the fresh juicy fruit flavors and exotic tropical fruit notes to shine. It could be described as “California” in style. Just ripe enough to bring out the tropical fruit yet picked early enough to capture the crisp apple and Meyer lemon notes. The bright acidity is in balance with the lush fruit flavors and the essence of creaminess from the time spent on the lees. The crisp finish has richly woven notes of jasmine, pineapple and Golden Delicious apple.

Versatile, our Pinot Noir pairing suggestions include mushrooms, duck, salmon or other fatty fish, and a wide variety of pork dishes. Our more fruit forward vintages will pair well with grilled red meat or a hearty beef stew whereas the more classic and cooler vintages will complement roasted chicken, braised short ribs and many pasta dishes.