The Vineyard
As the team started evaluating the different lots of Pinot Noir from the 2023 vintage, our gut reactions from harvest were being validated—2023 will be known as one of the best in California’s history. Across the Sta. Rita Hills and throughout California, most viticulturists and winemakers said the same thing: “bountiful and beautiful.” As a result of high-quality Pinot Noir, we w...
The Vineyard
As the team started evaluating the different lots of Pinot Noir from the 2023 vintage, our gut reactions from harvest were being validated—2023 will be known as one of the best in California’s history. Across the Sta. Rita Hills and throughout California, most viticulturists and winemakers said the same thing: “bountiful and beautiful.” As a result of high-quality Pinot Noir, we were compelled to produce a ‘Reserve’ blend with the goal of making something different from our regular OLG Pinot Noir, with structure to allow for extended aging yet also unmistakably OLG. Numerous iterations led to the final blend, a selection of 21 different new barrels.
From the Winemaker
At the outset, the 2023 OLG Reserve Pinot Noir pours a dark magenta core with a glowing ruby rim. The 100% New French Oak delivers a powerful yet nuanced aromatic profile of ripe black cherry, cardamom, morel mushroom, touch of curry powder, exotic spices and rose water. Flooding upon entry, the wine extends to all corners of the palate with ripe blue and purple fruits and a deft structure that keeps all facets in harmonious balance. The close shines with electricity ala blood orange aguachile and focused tannins that denote decades of future evolution.
100% Pinot Noir from Our Lady of Guadalupe Vineyard
Clonal Selection: 828, Pommard 4, 459, 777, 115, 667
Aged in French Oak for 16 months, 100% New
95 Wine Enthusiast
"This first-ever reserve bottling for Dave Phinney's Sta. Rita Hills estate is almost required collecting. Bold black cherry and blackberry aromas are dusted in sultry wood spice and purple potpourri notes. The tense palate's elegant array of tart red fruit, peppery spices and vibrant acidity should harmonize even more with patience. Drink now-2038." - WE
