Vintage Character The 2020 Santa Rita Hills Pinot Noir from Racines is a striking reflection of California’s coastal terroir, harmonizing Burgundian elegance with the vibrant energy of the Santa Rita Hills AVA. The 2020 vintage in this region was shaped by a relatively moderate growing season, with persistent coastal fog and cool breezes allowing for gradual, even ripening of the fruit. This resulted in wines noted for their freshness, clarity, and balanced acidity, making 2020 a favorable year for Pinot Noir in the Santa Rita Hills.
Tasting Profile & Food Pairing On the nose, this wine reveals alluring aromas of wild strawberry, cranberry, rose petal, and a subtle earthiness. The palate is layered with red cherry, pomegranate, and a delicate touch of baking spice, supported by silky tannins and a lively, mineral-driven structure that carries through to a refined, lingering finish. Exceptionally versatile at the table, it pairs beautifully with grilled duck breast, wild mushroom risotto, or classic French Comté cheese, making it a sophisticated choice for a range of occasions.
Winery Background Racines is the result of a unique partnership between renowned Burgundian winemakers Étienne de Montille and Brian Sieve, and acclaimed California vintner Justin Willett. Drawing fruit from carefully selected, sustainably farmed vineyards within the Santa Rita Hills AVA, Racines is dedicated to expressing the region’s distinctive marine-influenced climate and diverse soils. The team employs meticulous vineyard management and a minimal intervention approach in the cellar, aiming to capture the purity and nuance of each site. This commitment to terroir-driven winemaking and sustainable practices has quickly established Racines as a benchmark producer in California’s cool-climate Pinot Noir scene, blending Old World tradition with New World innovation to craft wines of exceptional clarity, balance, and aging potential.