2020 Sanford & Benedict Vineyard Pinot Noir
2020 Sanford & Benedict Vineyard Pinot Noir
New Release! A classic Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir from our region's most iconic vineyard.
Description
The 2020 Sanford & Benedict Vineyard Pinot Noir is a beautifully crafted expression of the terroir, showcasing the classic characteristics of the varietal. The nose reveals a complex bouquet of red fruits, including fresh raspberry, cherry, and cranberry. Subtle floral notes of violet intermingle with hints of spice and earth. The palate is elegantly structured, with a medium body and silky tannins that provide a refined mouthfeel. Juicy flavors of ripe strawberry and pomegranate are underscored by a lively acidity, lending freshness and balance. The finish is long and graceful, with lingering notes of berry compote and a gentle touch of spice, inviting another sip.
Vineyard Notes
This vineyard is the cradle of the Sta. Rita Hills appellation and played a significant role in bringing recognition to the great potential of the region. Planted by Richard Sanford and Michael Benedict in 1971, wines produced from this vineyard continue to set the highest quality standards. This Pinot Noir hails from vines planted in 2008 to the highly regarded clone 943. The soil type is the Botella Series, a composition of both clay and loam with a high calcareous content, which drains well and helps keep yields low.
Production Notes
Fast-paced and at times challenging, Sta Rita Hills’ 2020 vintage was spared from wildfire damage experienced in other areas of California and produced outstanding fruit. Harvest began slightly earlier than normal with our first Pinot Noir pick on August 24. A Labor Day weekend heat spell nudged several of our Pinot Noir vineyards to ideal ripeness and by September 8, about 60% of our grapes had been harvested. Cooler temperatures resumed and we completed the Pinot Noir harvest on September 18. Grapes at Sanford & Benedict were picked on September 7th.
Winemaker Notes
Pinot Noir clusters for this wine were hand sorted before being de-stemmed and gravity fed to small open top fermenters. The must was immediately chilled for a pre-fermentation cold soak. During fermentation, concentration was enhanced by gently punching down the cap several times per day. The wine aged 18 months in French oak barrels with 33% new oak and was racked one time. This Pinot Noir was bottled unfined and unfiltered on April 28th, 2022.
| Vintage |
2020 |
| Wine Style |
Red Wine |
| Varietal |
100% Pinot Noir |
| Appellation |
Sta. Rita Hills |
| Acid |
6.8 g/l |
| PH |
3.35 |
| Alcohol % |
14.4 |
| Size |
750 ml |
