2022 The Hilt - Pinot Noir Santa Rita Hills (750ml)

The Hilt is a project from the owners of Screaming Eagle, established to bring the same obsessive attention to detail to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from the Sta. Rita Hills. The estate is anchored by two distinct ridges, Bentrock and Radian, situated in the coolest, most windswept southwestern corner of the appellation, a location winemaker Matt Dees considers among the most demanding places to grow grapes and among the best for making wine. Poor soils, whipping coastal winds, and low vigor vines all force the plants to work hard, concentrating flavor in the fruit they do produce.

This bottling centers on Radian, which makes up just over half the blend, rounded out by nearly equal parts Bentrock and Sanford & Benedict. Vines range from eight to forty four years old, and the 2022 growing season ran warmer than average with naturally low yields, giving the wine unusual concentration. The wine ages in French oak, a technique that adds structure while letting the site's diatomaceous soils express themselves through fine, chalky tannins.

The nose shows black fruit, red cherry, and tobacco, broader and more generous than past vintages, while the palate reveals earthy porcini and dried herb notes beneath decadent dark fruit. Bright acidity keeps it lively through a long finish. This wine pairs beautifully with roasted duck, mushroom risotto, or grilled lamb.