Fess Parker Winery, Sta. Rita Hills (Santa Barbara County, California) Pinot Noir 2017

 Part of the winery’s single vineyard collection, this Pinot Noir hits all of the high notes.  The aromas are classic ripe cherry, rose petal, dried herbs and earth, and the texture is ultra smooth, savory, and velvety.  The style is decidedly elegant, yet the flavors are lively and the long aftertaste is absolutely endearing.  This Pinot is multi-layered and nicely textured.  One of the very first to put Santa Barbara on the wine map, the Sanford & Benedict Vineyard was planted in 1971, and there are hints of old vine density and texture in this Pinot Noir.  Drink now to 2025.