96pts Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Pale ruby, the 2021 Pinot Noir Santa Barbara County offers detailed aromas of cranberries, blackberries, oolong tea leaves, potpourri, earth, orange peel and fernet. Medium-bodied, it floods the mouth with layer after layer of bitters-tinged fruits, boasting fine, dusty tannins, addicting freshness and a very long, detailed finish. This way overdelivers for its modest appellation-wide status!
Winemaker Notes
While SBC stands for Santa Barbara County, the 2021 is once again specifically all Sta. Rita Hills, featuring Radian, Sanford & Benedict, La Rinconada, and Kessler-Haak vineyards. Small amounts of new French oak and stems lay the structural foundation while a brief elevage promotes the freshness and fruitiness everyone expects from this AVA.
A great match for grilled pork chops, chicken satay, Korean BBQ pork belly, or tri-tip.