VINEYARD Mt. Carmel, Sta. Rita Hills AVA
CLONES 2A, 828
TRELLISING VSP
SOIL Tierra sandy loam, diatomaceous earth
FERMENTATION 100% concrete; 10% whole cluster
ÉLEVAGE 48% new French oak & 52% neutral oak for 17 months, then 100% of the blend was aged for 1 month in stainless steel
ALCOHOL 13.5%
pH 3.75
TA 5.73 g/L
AROMA
Aromatic layers of cherry, cacao, and vanilla intertwined with a subtle hint of cedar.
PALATE
Fragrant wild strawberry, dried cranberry, and a touch of blood orange, with bright acidity and refined tannins, pave the way to a well-integrated, extended finish.
Established in 1989, Mt. Carmel is located in the acclaimed Sta. Rita Hills appellation. An extremely cool and windy site, Mt. Carmel is primarily dry-farmed, which ensures the roots of the vines dig deep into the site’s exceptional diatomaceous earth soils, producing a wine that is both energetic and intricate.
Fermented in 100% concrete using 10% whole clusters and then gracefully aged for 18 months, the 2022 Mt. Carmel Pinot Noir vividly reflects its cool-climate terroir.
The nose reveals an inviting blend of cherry, cacao, and vanilla with a hint of cedar. On the palate, vibrant red fruit flavors of wild strawberry and dried cranberries, along with notes of blood orange, are balanced by bright acidity and refined tannins, leading to a well-integrated, extended finish.
Fact of Note: Mt. Carmel features the highest whole cluster use in our Single Vineyard series.
THE STA. RITA HILLS IS located between the towns of Buellton and Lompoc in Santa Barbara County. A critical component for this region’s success is its cool climate and the purely East/West mountain range, whose maritime mouth funnels coastal fog and wind to the vines. This unique orientation, coupled with exceptional Botella clay and limestone soils, produces wines that are as focused and bright as they are alluring.
Before you hit the Sta. Rita Hills, stretch your legs and explore the various hotels, restaurants, parks, and shops of the quaint town of Buellton. Now famous after making its silver screen debut in the movie Sideways, you can relive the film by visiting one of the many charming eateries and must-go spots when in the area.
