Wes Hagen, 20 year veteran wine maker at Clos Pepe Vineyard, joined our group and gave us a master class in Santa Barbara pinot noir. We tried 11 PNs from 2004-2010, made by Loring, AP Vin, Sandler, Siduri, and Brewer-Clifton. This 2009 Loring had the meaty flavors that I love in a great US PN. — 6 months ago
Earthy notes with slight all spice finish — a year ago
Composite cork and 15.4% alcohol. Doesn’t show the alcohol level at all with still a good amount of fruit. Nicely balanced. — 3 years ago
Irena brought to Santa Ynez — 11 days ago
The 2022 Chardonnay (Sta. Rita Hills) is a fabulous introduction to the range. Served last in this series of Chardonnays, the appellation Chardonnay is perhaps a bit more floral and lighter in body, but other than that, it is in no way inferior to the vineyard designates. This is beautifully done. (Antonio Galloni, Vinous, August 2024)
— 2 months ago
Amazing freshness balancing the emerging tertiary characteristics. True Mt Carmel acidity shining through. — 8 months ago
The 2022 Pinot Noir Machado is a pretty wine with understated density and terrific balance. Dark red/purplish fruit, lavender, rose petal, mint, spice and blood orange fill out the layers. Machado is the most reticent of the vineyard designates. It will be interesting to see what time brings here. (Antonio Galloni, Vinous, August 2024)
— 2 months ago
Scott E. Becker
[Tasted on September 29, 2024 at Home]
Wine is Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir. Cherry SweeTarts, red plum, tobacco, graphite, smoke and spice. — 7 days ago