The Hilt Estate Pinot Noir 2017

Critical Acclaim: 95 pts Jeb Dunnuck; 95 pts Antonio Galloni; 91 pts Robert Parker's Wine Advocate.

About the Wine: The Hilt is defined by its three maritime influenced vineyards in the southwest corner of the Sta. Rita Hills appellation: Radian, Bentrock and Puerta del Mar.

Winemaker Tasting Notes: Savory, dark and perfumed pinot noir. Lifted notes of rose petals, black cherry, dried tobacco, blood orange, sage, pomegranate and cracked white pepper. Bright and savory red fruit with salinity, fresh herbs and focus. Lightness and charm on the palate with darker overtones of earth and dust. Gentle tannins with a vinous touch from minimal stem inclusion combine to make a finish that lingers. Ultimately a wine defined by elegance and precision. The balanced and complete sum of the best parts of our ≠state vineyards in one bottle. 

"Leading off the Pinot Noirs, the 2017 Pinot Noir Estate reveals a deeper ruby/purple-tinged color as well as a ripe, sexy bouquet of black raspberries, cassis, scorched earth, violets, and background oak. Rounded, medium to full-bodied, textured, and just loaded with dark fruit on the palate, it's beautifully balanced and will drink fabulously well for at least 7-8 years."- Jeb Dunnuck. 

"The 2017 Estate Pinot Noir Sta. Rita Hills, aged for 12 months in 15% new French oak and with 5% stem inclusion, is pale to medium ruby-purple with tricolored fruits: blackberries, red berries and sliced blueberries with loamy earth, dust, peppered meat and dried florals. It's medium-bodied with a restrained fruit core and earthy accents, grainy tannins and juicy acidity, finishing long."- Robert Parker's Wine Advocate. 

Varietal: Pinot Noir.