Observations Series
Mt. Carmel, Sta. Rita Hills, Pinot Noir
Established in 1989, Mt. Carmel Vineyard is among the pioneering sites planted in the acclaimed Sta. Rita Hills appellation. Known for its extremely cool and windy climate, the vineyard is primarily dry-farmed. This method encourages the vines’ roots to delve deep into the exceptional diatomaceous earth soils, resulting in a wine that is both energetic and intricately layered.
In 2020, the vineyard was harvested over the span of one month, with two individual picks during an extended growing season that lasted a week beyond the average timeline. The wine reveals captivating aromas of dark berries, sweet sage, chaparral, and hints of salty ocean air. On the palate, notes of boysenberry and raspberry are complemented by bracing acidity, culminating in a zesty, mineral-driven finish.
2019 / 94
2017 / 95
2016 / 94
2020 / 92
2018 / 95
2017 / 94
2020 / 95
2018 / 93
2017 / 95
2017 / 96
2016 / 97
2016 / 95