2023 "Seabiscuit" Pinot Noir

Zotovich Vineyard

A wine of elegance and poise, Seabiscuit captures the spirit of the Sta. Rita Hills—wind-swept, ocean-cooled, and mineral-rich. Zotovich Vineyard, nestled between ridge and fog, delivered pristine fruit in 2023: small, beautifully formed clusters that seemed to glow with balance. Aromas of loamy earth, dried tobacco, and rose petal set the stage for a rush of Rainier cherry, raspberry, and orange peel. The mouthfeel is sleek and lifted, framed by silky-dusty tannins and a clean, herbal finish with notes of black tea and crushed rock. A wine that invites contemplation and pleasure with every sip. - Paul Lato

"From the Zotovich Vineyard on the southern side of the Sta. Rita Hills and aged 17 months in 65% new French oak, the 2023 Pinot Noir Seabiscuit is translucent ruby and very floral and spicy, with a beautiful core of mulberry and raspberry fruits, rose, and smoky herb nuances. It's gorgeous on the palate as well, with a fresh, focused mouthfeel, ripe tannins, and a great finish. It's one of the fresher, more chiseled, focused Pinots in the lineup from Paul and is going to cruise for a decade in cold cellars. Drink 2025-2035." - 96 points, Jeb Dunnuck