Westerly Pinot Noir Sta Rita Hills

Overview

Westerly Pinot Noir from Sta. Rita Hills exemplifies the cool-climate elegance of California's premier Pinot Noir AVA, where foggy mornings and warm afternoons yield balanced, site-expressive reds.

Specs at a glance

Good to know

Sta. Rita Hills, a sub-AVA of Santa Barbara County, gained recognition for Pinot Noir due to its transverse mountain range channeling Pacific fog, fostering high acidity and restrained alcohol in wines from producers like Westerly.

Tasting notes

• Nose: Bright red cherry, raspberry, and subtle rose petal, with hints of wet earth and spice.
• Palate: Silky entry with vibrant cran-raspberry fruit, layered cola and baking spice; bright acidity cuts through fine tannins for a poised mid-palate.
• Finish: Clean and lingering, echoing red fruit and minerality.

Notable details

• Production: Estate-grown in Sta. Rita Hills, emphasizing cool-climate terroir.
• Lineage: Part of the Sta. Rita Hills tradition pioneered by producers highlighting clonal diversity and sustainable farming.
• Comparison: Shares finesse with Burgundy-inspired Pinots from the AVA like those from Sea Smoke or Melville.
• Availability: Limited production typical of small-lot Sta. Rita Hills releases.

Serving suggestions

• Neat or lightly chilled to 55°F.
• Pairs with roasted duck, salmon, or mushroom risotto.

"Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noirs deliver exceptional balance of fruit, earth, and structure." – General AVA profile from expert consensus.

Closing

A refined choice for Pinot lovers seeking AVA authenticity without excess.