94 Points -
"Pure ruby in color, the 2021 Pinot Noir Truly Rita is spicy and expressive, with red cherry, cinnamon, and cedar. Medium-bodied, the palate is ripe with notes of orange, dusty earth, red berries, and a delicate salinity, with. Refreshing and clean, this is an attractive wine to drink over the next 6-8 years." —Audrey Frick, jebdunnuck.com, July 2023
Tasting Notes
Aromas of wild cherry, crushed violets and a Rooibos tea-like note of earth and spice, complement the notes of salinity and ripe cherry. With polished tannin and a lengthy finish, this very elegant wine shows the beauty of Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir.
Historic Acclaim
2021: 94 points, Audrey Frick, jebdunnuck.com, July 2023
2019: 94 Points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous, January 2023
2018: 93 points, Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate, Jan 2021
2018: 92 points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous, August 2020
2017: 95 points, Jeb Dunnuck, jebdunnuck.com, June 2020
2017: 93 points, Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate, Feb 2020
2016: 94 Points, Antonio Galloni, Vinous, May 2019
2016: 93 Points, Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate, Feb 2019
Vineyard & Vintage Character
Fruit for our Truly Rita Pinot Noir comes from the well-respected Dierberg – Drum Canyon site. This vineyard is on a steep slope facing the Pacific Ocean and is influenced by the cool ocean breezes every day. Our blocks are planted to three selections: Swan, Calera, and Dijon 115. The well-drained and calcium-rich soils, combined with the cool climate produces a wine that is very graceful but with powerful underlying texture.
Wine Details
Oak: 100% French oak, 25% new
Time in oak: 15 months
Alcohol: 14.1%
TA: 6.3 g/L
pH: 3.40
Cases produced: 97