Donnachadh Pinot Noir Santa Rita Hills 2023 750ml

The 2023 Pinot Noir (Sta. Rita Hills) is a total delight. Fresh, aromatic and very pretty, the 2023 is all class. Freshly cut flowers, red-toned fruit, orange peel, spice, mint and white pepper soar out of the glass. This deceptively medium-bodied Pinot is such a charmer. A dollop of stems (10%) adds perfume without dominating the wine’s balance. This is an impressive showing for a wine that was bottled a month before this tasting.

• Country: United States
• Region: California
• Appellation: Santa Barbara
• Sub Appellation: Santa Rita Hills
• Size: 750ml
• Color: Red
• Alcohol by Vol: 13.0%

Varietal

Pinot Noir

Regularly described as being the grape varietal responsible for producing the world’s most romantic wines, Pinot Noir has long been associated with elegance and a broad range of flavors The name means ‘black pine’ in French, and this is due to the fact that the fruit of this particular varietal is especially dark in color, and hangs in a conical shape, like that of a pine cone. Despite being grown today in almost every wine producing country, Pinot Noir is a notoriously difficult grape variety to cultivate. This is because it is especially susceptible to various forms of mold and mildew, and thrives best in steady, cooler climates. However, the quality of the fruit has ensured that wineries and vintners have persevered with the varietal, and new technologies and methods have overcome many of the problems it presents. Alongside this, the wide popularity and enthusiasm for this grape has ensured it will remain a firm favorite amongst wine drinkers for many years to come.