Samuel Louis Smith Pinot Noir Montanita de Oro 2021, Monterey County, California

Samuel Louis Smith is a micro-négociant based in Salinas, CA, focused on some of the coolest sites of the Central Coast. Mountainous terroir, organic viticulture, and minimal intervention in the cellar are tenets of the brand. The brand embodies a neoclassical style where lower alcohol and higher acidity, stem inclusion in the reds, and native fermentations with little to no additions create wines of place and purity, aroma and structure. Montanita de Oro highlights the best of Monterey County’s mountain pinot sites. At an average elevation of 1400 ft, high-toned aromatics are framed by elegant mountain structure. Tasting notes: Deep red. Wild strawberries, damp earth, bay laurel, sweet spices, and bergamot tea on the nose are followed by red fruits and savory spices on the palate. A medium body is framed by elegant tannins and a long finish. 45% whole cluster fermentation. Native alcoholic and malolactic fermentations. 10 months elevage in 28% new, 8% second-fill, and 64% neutral French oak barrels.