Nose

Nose of damp earth, underbrush and mossy bark over warm red currants, black cherries and mulberries plus a waft of iron ore.

Palate

Rita’s Crown Pinot Noir has a nougaty, chalky mineral character driven by terroir. The palate features concentrated berry coulis and five-spice. This wine is lively and dynamic with subtle oak notes and a lengthy structured finish full of powerful red fruit.

Growing Conditions

Central Coast AVA roughly 250 miles along the coastline of California from Santa Barbara County to San Francisco County. Sta. Rita Hills follows a clearly defined maritime “throat” that ushers in the Pacific fog and constant cooling breezes. Sandy Loam Soils cause vines to produce grapes with powerful varietal character.

Harvest

The 2015 growing season in Anderson Valley was characterized by early bud break and a quick harvest. Early spring was unusually warm, however temperatures dropped in May causing ripening to slow, this allowed for flavor development and higher acidity. Yields were lower but the small berries and shatter that characterized this vintage resulted in impressive quality in the bottle.

Aging

10 Months in 50% New French Oak.

Appearance

Deep ruby-purple in color.