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).