Alma Rosa La Encantada Pinot Noir 2021, Santa Rita Hills, Santa Barbara County: $84.99 Year after year, Pinot Noir from the La Encantada Vineyard unveils its distinct charm. With a medium ruby hue in the glass, the 2021 La Encantada Pinot Noir is delicate yet captivating. The nose offers aromas of red roses, red berries, and a touch of forest floor. The palate features plenty of red fruit flavors, including red currants, cherries and strawberries, which are complemented by bright acidity, chalky tannins and a spicy finish.
"Classic Sta. Rita Hills notes of sour cherries, iodine, leafy herbs, and spring flowers emerge from the 2021 Pinot Noir La Encantada Vineyard, a medium-bodied, silky, elegant 2021. I love its complexity, and it has fine tannins, a focused, streamlined mouthfeel, and a great finish. This comes from a valley floor site on the southern side of the appellation, was 80% destemmed, and saw 10 months in 40% new French oak. It’s perfect for drinking over the coming 6-7 years or so." Jeb Dunnuck 94 pts.