AequoreaPinot Noir, Derbyshire VineyardDerbyshire is one of the most extreme vineyards properties I've ever seen in California, sitting on a slope overlooking the Pacific Ocean just 1.5 miles away. Lying just south of the town of San Simeon, it is pounded by daily wind and fog, exemplifying a cool, coastal climate probably better than anywhere I can imagine. But arising from the struggle the vines face on a daily basis is a wine that is amazingly pure and focused. Deep, intense aromatics of Damson plum, smoked meat, black rose, and white pepper. High toned and pure on the palate, it has loads of black fruit, minerals and smoke, with a backbone of dashing acidity.