In the rugged, rocky, hillside region of Sta. Rita Hills AVA, The Hilt Estate crafts expressive, complex wines from vineyards growing in conditions most would consider crazy for trying to grow anything. But, as is known by many of the great winemakers and vintners of the world, terrible agricultural conditions often create the very best grapes for producing wines that tell the story of the land.  With close proximity to the Pacific Ocean, windswept vineyards of the Hilt’s estate home of Rancho Salsipuedes is filled with a mix of terrains with varying elevations, soil types, microclimates, and sun exposure where grapes must dig their roots deep into the earth to find nutrients creating tiny grapes with incredible concentration. The resulting wines are complex and powerful, retaining freshness and acidity, thanks to the Pacific’s cooling influence, melding with ripe fruit flavors.

This complexity is revealed in the Hilt Estate Pinot Noir ($50) delivering a wine with texture, character, and depth. Nicely aromatic upon the opening, revealing aromas of woody herb and black tea melding with savory spice and juicy red fruits. A beautifully polished wine layering raspberry, tart cranberry, and pomegranate with dried sagebrush and thyme, nutmeg and clove, and hints of toasted cedar. Highly structured and dense, while maintaining freshness that ensures the wine will pair well with Herbs de Provence roasted poultry, mushroom risotto, even a pepper crushed filet of beef. #cheers