Category:
 
Red Wines
Sub-Category:  
 
Red Wines
Producer:
 
Dom Jean Francois
Label Name:
 
Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir
Vintage:
 
2020
Country:
 
United States
Region:
 
Sta. Rita Hills, Santa Barbara County, California
Volume:
 
750ml
ABV:
 
13.5%
Grape(s):
 
Pinot Noir
Acidity:
 
4
Tannins:
 
4
Sweetness:
 
1
Body:
 
3
Length:
 
5
Aroma Intensity:
 
5
Best Temperature:
 
14-16°C

Awards/Ratings
98 points — The Wine Advocate (Erin Brooks, 2022); 95 points — Vinous (Antonio Galloni); widely praised in specialty retailers and collectors

Tasting Note
Perfumed red cherry, raspberry and strawberry with violet, bergamot, tea-leaf and woodsmoke accents. Silky medium body, bright acidity, fine dusty tannins and a mineral-driven, lingering, haunting finish.

Food Pairing
Western: roast duck, coq au vin, mushroom risotto, grilled salmon, aged Gouda. Asian: miso‑glazed black cod, teriyaki chicken, Korean bulgogi, char siu pork, shiitake and bok choy stir‑fry.

Production Method
Small‑lot, Burgundian‑inspired vinification. 2020 was destemmed; fermentation in small lots with selective whole‑cluster use historically; aged in French oak (approx. one‑third new) for 10–16 months.

Vineyard Info
Domaine Jean François is a collaboration between Sanford Vineyard (Terlato family) and François Labet (Château de la Tour). 'The Twelve Rows' selects a tiny parcel from the historic Sanford & Benedict vineyard (planted 1971).