2020 / Pinot Noir

2020 La Encantada Pinot Noir

The La Encantada Vineyard is situated approximately 9 miles from the Pacific Ocean in the cool-climate Sta. Rita Hills AVA. Located off Santa Rosa Road in the southern valley of the appellation, this highly praised vineyard was planted by Richard Sanford in 2001. Notable for the rare east/west orientation of the valley, this location is influenced by the fog and cool, relentless marine winds from the mighty Pacific Ocean to the west. This vineyard source consistently produces a signature wine with a unique character, elegance, and a deft balance lending a true sense of place.

wine specifications

Varietal Composition

100% Pinot Noir
Appellation

Sta. Rita Hills
Barrel Regime

French oak aged for 10 months (35% new)
Alcohol

14.3%

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Full Wine Specifications (PDF)

Tasting notes

In the glass, it’s a moderately concentrated ruby-purple core that brightens at the rim, showing complex aromas with layers of strawberry, Bing cherry and plum with vanilla, baking spice, and dried autumn leaves. Medium bodied on the palate with ripe cranberry, red currant, and toasted bread on entry, with earthy notes of forest floor, dried flowers, herbs with bright acidity and restrained tannins on the mid-palate, leading into a lengthy, fresh finish with juicy raspberry fruit and nicely integrated oak.

Food pairings

The 2020 La Encantada Vineyard Pinot Noir shows its Sta. Rita Hills roots with characteristic complex mix of fruit, lively acidity, savory earthy notes, and a bit of toasted spice. Showing fruit, savory notes, and freshness on the palate, it’s a great match for game meats of all types, particularly fowl, and is a perfect pairing to pappardelle pasta with a slow cooked duck ragu sauce.