Pinot Noir, 2017. Summerland

Summerland Winery has been producing quality, estate-driven wines derived from renowned vineyards across California's Central Coast since its founding in 2002. The Central Coast of California spans from San Francisco to Santa Barbara, including 90,000 vineyards that produce a variety of different styles of Pinot Noir. The Pinot Noir in this bottle is mainly sourced from multiple Sta. Rita Hills vineyards and Paso Robles.

Summerland Pinot Noir contains grapes from Sanford & Benedict Vineyard (62%), Sta. Rita Hills (25%), with the Syrah coming from Cripple Creek Vineyard. The grapes are fermented in 100% stainless steel tanks and then aged 12-16 months in 40% oak barrel, 60% stainless steel for 1-2 years. The oak barrels are a combination of French, American and neutral.

The color is a deep ruby red, opening with aromas of ripe berries, sweet plums, and a hint of white pepper. On the palate, bold and complex flavors of dark cherry, vanilla, baking spices, and strawberry-rhubarb pie lead into refined tannins. Dishes with a touch of spice will pair nicely with this wine, think hoisin duck bao buns or char siu pork. Roasted pork with cherries will pair nicely with this wine, as well as some lighter fare, such as seared tuna or simply roasted chicken with rosemary and thyme. For vegetarian dishes, think lentil and parsnip salad or roasted beets with herbs.

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