Dolin 2014 Pinot Noir, La Encantada Vyd., Sta. Rita Hills

We got a real gem this time! This boutique Pinot Noir is from Richard Sanford’s prized vineyard on the western edge of the Sta. Rita Hills. Located just seven miles from the Pacific Ocean, La Encantada’s site was hand selected and planted with Dijon clones by the legendary Richard Sanford, one of the pioneers and founders of this highly acclaimed AVA. He selected this 250 acre site for its terroir and its cool microclimate, defined by the east to west mountain range which pulls in the maritime air. Every morning, a cool layer of marine fog blankets the vineyard. As the fog burns off and the winds start to blow creating a dramatic variance in temperature. The diatomaceous (fossilized seashell) soils and Certified California Organic (CCOF) farming techniques combine with these unique conditions to create a terroir that produces the highest quality Pinot Noir grapes.

Following a very early morning harvest, the grapes were de-stemmed and then underwent a five-day cold soak. Fermentation took place in 1.3-ton fermentation tanks with twice-daily punch downs. Following the conclusion of primary fermentation, the wine settled for 36 hours and was pressed clean to medium-toast
French oak barrels. It completed malolactic over four months and aged for a total of 21 months in 30% new French  Allier oak barrels. Bottled unfined.

Giving it a 91 point score, Wine Enthusiast Magazine raved "Aromas of red cherry, star anise and cardamom show on the nose of this bottling...The palate's structure is firm, holding up flavors of cranberry, ripe raspberry and Chinese five spice, all leading into a fresh fruit-punch finish."

Less than 200 cases of this plush wine were produced so needless to say it's very limited.