2021 Sanford & Benedict Vineyard Pinot Noir
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Tasting notes
Fermented with 60% whole clusters, the 2021 Pinot Noir Sanford & Benedict Vineyard is a fantastically balanced and multifaceted expression of this site. The nose leads with measured, refined aromas of red cherries, green tea, sagebrush and orange peels. The palate is weightlessly concentrated yet refreshingly succulent, seamlessly moving into a thunderous, lifted finish of fine-boned structure and finely detailed acidity. Exceptionally dynamic in the glass, it continuously adds dimension and nuance and will undoubtedly be a joy to follow through its 10th birthday.
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Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2021 Pinot Noir Sanford & Benedict Vineyard is a powerful, dense wine. A high percentage of whole clusters (50%) is a strong marker. Dark blue/purplish fruit, lavender, spice, menthol and licorice open with some coaxing. The 2021 is a very pretty wine. This opens beautifully with time in the glass. For my palate, I would like to see more site character and less overt stem influence.
The 2021 Pinot Noir Sanford & Benedict Vineyard is a heady, bombastic wine. A rush of dark cherry, plum, chocolate, lavender, cloves, leather and spice are all dialed up. Readers should expect a potent, backward Sta. Rita Hills Pinot. There's real substance here. This is such a promising wine.