2022 The Hilt - Pinot Noir Santa Rita Hills (750ml)
2022 The Hilt Pinot Noir from Santa Rita Hills is the result of the Screaming Eagle team’s commitment to terroir-driven care in Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Positioned at the cool, windswept southwestern edge of the appellation, the estate is anchored by Bentrock and Radian ridges, where poor soils and coastal gusts push vines to their limits and concentrate flavor in the fruit. This bottling centers on Radian, making up just over half the blend, with Bentrock and Sanford & Benedict contributing the balance. Vines range from eight to forty-four years old, and the 2022 growing season ran warmer than average with naturally low yields, yielding unusually concentrated fruit. The wine matures in French oak, creating structure while letting the site’s diatomaceous soils express themselves through fine, chalky tannins.
Tasting notes & profile
The nose presents black fruit, red cherry, and tobacco, broader and more generous than in previous vintages. On the palate, earthy porcini and dried herb notes emerge beneath a core of decadent dark fruit, while bright acidity keeps the wine buoyant and leads into a long, focused finish.
Terroir, aging & structure
Two distinct ridges—Bentrock and Radian—define the site, where tough conditions and low vigor vines intensify flavor development. The diatomaceous soils yield chalky tannins that frame the fruit, and French oak aging adds subtle backbone and length without eclipsing the expression of the vineyard sites.
Food pairings
- Roasted duck
- Mushroom risotto
- Grilled lamb