Sanford Pinot Noir Santa Rita
Sanford Pinot Noir Santa Rita 2022 is the wine that caught my attention recently. This lovely wine, received just this past Saturday, June 8, 2024, is from the esteemed Sanford Winery, located in Santa Barbara County, specifically in the Santa Rita Hills. Sanford is known for pioneering Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in this cool-climate region, which allows their wines to develop unique, complex flavors.
Sanford Winery has a storied history of innovation and dedication to quality. Founded in 1971 by botanist Michael Benedict and aviator Richard Sanford, the vineyard quickly gained acclaim for its exceptional Pinot Noir. Sanford was instrumental in establishing the Sta. Rita Hills as a premier winegrowing region, now recognized worldwide. The cool coastal climate and diverse soil types here create the perfect conditions for growing expressive and balanced Pinot Noir. Today, Sanford continues its commitment to sustainable farming and producing wines that reflect the unique terroir of Santa Rita Hills.
Enjoying this wine on a Saturday afternoon in Santa Monica was a memorable experience. There we were, my friends and I, sitting on the sandy shore with the gentle Pacific breeze brushing against our faces. The scene was straight out of a postcard – the sun was hanging low in the sky, casting a golden hue over everything it touched. Laughter filled the air as we shared stories and sipped the Sanford Pinot Noir. The waves crashing in the background provided a soothing soundtrack to our relaxed conversations. It was one of those afternoons where time seemed to slow down, allowing us to savor every moment and every sip. The sense of camaraderie, the setting sun, and the taste of this delightful wine blended together to create an unforgettable experience.
Now, about the wine itself – this Pinot Noir has a character all its own. Pouring a vibrant ruby red in the glass, it immediately intrigued with its earthy, funky aroma. Described as “funky, stanky, delicious,” it delivered on all fronts. The nose was filled with earthy tones, a bit of forest floor, and a hint of savory spice, which I find incredibly appealing. On the palate, the wine showed a delightful balance of bright red fruit – think cherries and raspberries – with a touch of earthiness and a little bit of funkiness that added complexity. Its medium body and smooth tannins made for a pleasantly long finish that was both satisfying and refreshing. This wine pairs perfectly with a variety of foods, but on the beach, we kept it simple with a charcuterie board full of aged cheeses, cured meats, and rustic bread. Each sip complemented the food perfectly.
In terms of price and value, Sanford Pinot Noir Santa Rita 2022 is within reach for most wine enthusiasts, generally retailing around $30-$40. Given its high rating of 8.2 and the quality it delivers, this Pinot Noir is an excellent value for anyone looking to enjoy a fantastic bottle without breaking the bank. For a wine that offers such a delicious blend of flavors and a memorable drinking experience, Sanford Pinot Noir is a great choice that I highly recommend.