# Santa Barbara Winery Reserve Pinot Noir (2017)

- **Producer:** Santa Barbara Winery
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Pinot Noir
- **Region:** California, United States
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.7%
- **Serving temperature:** 14–16 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** raspberry, sour cherry, baked raspberry, red plum, pepper, incense

## About this wine

The Santa Barbara Winery Reserve Pinot Noir is a red wine produced in the Sta. Rita Hills AVA of Santa Barbara County, California. Made from 100% Pinot Noir, this wine represents the legacy of Santa Barbara Winery, established in 1962 as the county's first post-Prohibition winery. Winemaker Bruce McGuire, with the winery since 1981, focuses on vineyard-driven winemaking. The Sta. Rita Hills appellation is recognized for its cool climate, influenced by coastal fog and winds, which are vital for the development of high-quality Pinot Noir. The 2017 vintage experienced a balanced growing season with a later start due to winter rains, followed by moderated warm temperatures, culminating in a mid-September harvest.

## Interesting facts

- Santa Barbara Winery is the oldest bonded winery in Santa Barbara County.
- Winemaker Bruce McGuire has been with the winery since 1981.
- Sta. Rita Hills is known for its unique diurnal temperature shifts.
- The winery was founded by Pierre Lafond, a pioneer of the region.

## Food pairing

The wine's structure and fruit profile complement a range of proteins and earthy flavors. Its acidity cuts through richer dishes, while its tannins pair well with the protein in meats. Earthy notes in the wine resonate with mushrooms and herbs.

## Wine making process

The Santa Barbara Winery Reserve Pinot Noir is crafted from 100% Pinot Noir grapes grown in the Sta. Rita Hills AVA. The winemaking process, guided by winemaker Bruce McGuire, emphasizes vineyard integrity. Key techniques likely include careful temperature-controlled fermentation to preserve the varietal's aromatic profile. Following fermentation, the wine typically undergoes aging, often in oak barrels, to develop complexity and refine its texture. The harvest for the 2017 vintage took place in mid-September, reflecting the specific conditions of that growing season, which was characterized by a later start due to winter rains followed by moderated warm temperatures.