2015 Solomon Hills Vineyard Pinot Noir Santa Maria Valley

Solomon Hills Pinot Noir

Solomon Hills Vineyard is known to many as the coldest vineyard in the region. The cold ocean wind off of the Pacific whistles directly through the hills, on its way towards the desert. Located only 10 miles from the Pacific Ocean, our Estate wines always show a special balance between bright and fruity tones, of which California are always know, and more secondary flavors of underbrush, dried florals and damp vegetation. We select a small portion of Pommard clone, planted in 1999, to highlight these less fruit dominated notes. Clones 115 and 667 give us the fresh wild strawberry, pomegranate and raspberry notes of which Pinot Noir from very cold regions is known. The free-draining soils lend to the direct tannins and the balance which comes from these elements is captivating. Fermentation always happens naturally, and we never fine or filter. The amount of whole cluster varies depending on vintage, but generally around 30%. We age the wines for 18 months in 30% new French oak.

VINEYARD SITES

Solomon Hills Vineyard, Santa Maria Valley. 10 miles from the Pacific Ocean, this Pinot Noir is planted on the western edge of the Santa Maria Valley appellation. This site is so close to the ocean, you can actually see it with your eyes and taste it in the wines.