Ancien Pinot Noir 2021, Fiddlestix Vineyard, Santa. Rita Hills, California

The Fiddlestix Vineyard is located in the Sta Rita Hills AVA, which straddle the Santa Ynez River as it makes its way to the Pacific Ocean. As an East-West oriented valley, opening its mouth to the cool Pacific breezes, the consistent and cooling marine influence is significant. The remarkably consistent weather, characterized by lower highs and higher lows than the North Coast vineyards, conspires the silica-laden, marine sedimentary soils to make wines of power and structure. 2020 vintage – The grapes were 100% destemmed into an open top fermenter and cold soaked for 5 days. A combination of hand punch downs and a submerged caps device are used in order to optimally control extraction from the skins. The wine was aged for 12 months in a blend of Francois Freres and Remond cooperage. Tasting notes: Fiddlestix always presents a bold Pinot Noir with notes of fruit and exotic spice. The nose greets with notes of cassis, Indian spice, and hints of incense. Fresh dark fruits lead the palate, and the focus settles on ripe flavors of blackberry and currants spiced with peppercorn/allspice. Velvety and softly chewy tannins emphasize structure, while ever-present acidity balances and brightens. The spicy aromatics and flavors continue through the long finish.