Donnachadh Family Vineyards Estate Pinot Noir, Sta Rita Hills, USA 2021
Family owned and organically farmed, Donnachadh Vineyard is located on Santa Rosa Road in the Sta. Rita Hills AVA of Santa Barbara County. The property is 285 acres with approximately 40 acres under vine. We grow Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Syrah and a little bit of Gamay Noir.
We strive to make wines that express the beauty of this amazing place. We are inspired by the wines of Burgundy and the Northern Rhone, but want to make wines that recognize the uniqueness of this site. The cool climate and ocean breeze allow the grapes to ripen more slowly, developing rich, complex flavors while still retaining a bright natural acidity. There is a noticeable salinity, too, that further reminds one of the maritime environment that the wines come from. Finally, the varied terrain and soils, from the steep, rocky upper hillside to the gently rolling riverside blocks allow us to develop a lot of complexity and contrast within a relatively small area.
2021 Estate Pinot Noir comes all from our organically farmed hillside blocks. This wine is a blend of Swan, Pommard, Calera, 115 and 667 clones. Delicate perfume and fruit aromas of pomegranate, blood orange and red cherries, wrapped in layers of savory herbs — sage and thyme —along with black tea on the nose. Concentrated, but precise and delicate in the mouth, with focussed nuanced fruit and a savory finish. This is a wine that’s built for the long haul. If you drink it young, be sure to give it a decant or at least try to open it a couple of hours ahead of serving.
Wine Advocate 92
