Our Lady of Guadalupe Pinot Noir Sta. Rita Hills 2022

Vintage: 2022

$90.99

Our Lady of Guadalupe crafts a distinctive Pinot Noir from the renowned Sta. Rita Hills appellation, a region celebrated for its cool climate and ideal conditions for growing Pinot Noir. This wine showcases the classic characteristics of the varietal, with a delicate balance of red fruit flavors such as cherry and raspberry, complemented by subtle earthy undertones and a hint of spice. The winemaking process involves careful fermentation and aging in French oak barrels, which imparts a refined structure and a smooth, lingering finish. This Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with dishes like roasted duck, mushroom risotto, or a selection of soft cheeses.

Professional Scores

96

Aged 10 months in 49% new French oak, with a 3.76pH and 14.8% alcohol, the 2022 leads with a more savoury profile than the inaugural 2021 release (also a fabulous wine). Alluring candied cherry notes are scented with expressive cedarwood laced with fragrant cumin and flamed orange peel. A polished wine on entry with silky textured fruit so pure and so ripe and bright and perfectly expressive of black cherry, black plum, Red Delicious apple, and layers of baking spices. Satiny tannins glide up against a juicy acid profile, building to a finish of cocoa nib nuances and fresh garrigue notes. Juicy, structured, and delicious, it leaves one in a perpetual state of wanting for more. Phinney's team includes Amy Whiteford, director of viticulture, Chris Hussy, assistant winemaker, and Mike Testa, the vineyard manager. Our Lady of Guadalupe is unquestionably one to watch as the vines mature. Number eight of my top 10 wines of 2023.

Decanted Magazine

92

Wine-Searcher collates scores from a wide range of critics, from influential single palates like Robert Parker and Jancis Robinson to publications like Wine Spectator, all adjusted for the 100-point scale.

Wine-Searcher Aggregate Score

96

Aged 10 months in 49% new French oak, with a 3.76pH and 14.8% alcohol, the 2022 leads with a more savoury profile than the inaugural 2021 release (also a fabulous wine). Alluring candied cherry notes are scented with expressive cedarwood laced with fragrant cumin and flamed orange peel. A polished wine on entry with silky textured fruit so pure and so ripe and bright and perfectly expressive of black cherry, black plum, Red Delicious apple, and layers of baking spices. Satiny tannins glide up against a juicy acid profile, building to a finish of cocoa nib nuances and fresh garrigue notes. Juicy, structured, and delicious, it leaves one in a perpetual state of wanting for more. Phinney's team includes Amy Whiteford, director of viticulture, Chris Hussy, assistant winemaker, and Mike Testa, the vineyard manager. Our Lady of Guadalupe is unquestionably one to watch as the vines mature. Number eight of my top 10 wines of 2023.

Decanted Magazine
750mL