Sanford Vista Al Rio Pinot Noir
THE STORY
The “Vista al Rio” is from a north-west facing hillside block of our La Rinconada Vineyard overlooking the Santa Ynez River. This block is planted to clone 667 in well drained, rocky clay loam soil derived from weathered shale. 2015 marks the 10th anniversary of this powerful single block wine.
PROFILE & WINEMAKING
True to its pedigree, the 2015 Vista al Rio is an intensely vibrant wine, with a mix of spicy red and black fruits. Hints of white pepper and sage complement the bright fruit notes. The palate is full and balanced with lovely acidity and a tannin structure that will allow for long term aging. Meticulously farmed and gently handled in the cellar using classic Burgundian techniques, this captures the terroir of this superb block.
94 Points: “Brought up in 35% new French oak and all from a northwest facing hillside block in the La Rinconada Vineyard, the 2015 Pinot Noir Vista al Rio is another beautifully perfumed, seamless, ethereal wine from this estate. Cranberries, crushed flowers, leafy herbs, and candied violet notes all emerge from this crisp, energetic, vibrant Pinot Noir. It has beautiful acidity as well as depth of fruit, and it's going to evolve for 10+ years.” - Jeb Dunnuck
93 Points: "This comes from a single block in the La Rinconada vineyard and was aged 16 months in 35% new French oak. The 2015 Pinot Noir Vista Al Rio has a pale to medium ruby color and pretty nose of blueberries, blackcurrants, black berries and cherries with nuances of violet, bergamot, pepper, charcuterie and garrigue. The palate is medium-bodied with savory fruits, juicy acidity and a plethora of floral notes, framed by softly grainy tannins and finishing on an herbs note." - Erin Brooks, The Wine Advocate
90 Points: "A savory side complements the dried red fruit and spice flavors, supported by muscular tannins. Ripe and somewhat brooding on the finish, with notes of underbrush. Drink now through 2022. 393 cases made. " - Kim Marcus, Wine Spectator
