Racines - Sta Rita Hills - 'Sanford and Benedict Vineyard' Pinot Noir Red 2019 Magnum
Red
2019
California
Santa Rita Hills
Pinot Noir
Tasting Notes & Ratings
Grape
100% Pinot Noir
Tasting notes
The 2019 Racines Sanford & Benedict Vineyard Pinot Noir from Sta. Rita Hills is described as a powerful, brooding wine with a high percentage of stems, potentially adding savory intensity but also creating an austere expression. Tasting notes include ripe black cherry, vanilla bean, and baking spice on the nose, with a palate featuring black raspberry, cherry, and hints of coffee and dark chocolate. The wine is noted for its elegant, silky texture, long and vibrant finish, and balanced acidity and tannins. It also exhibits earthy, floral, and spicy notes, with a rusticity that is not often found in New World Pinot Noir. Some reviewers mention a slight austerity in its youth, suggesting it may evolve well with age.
Expert ratings
94 points - Antonio Galloni, Vinous
"The 2019 Pinot Noir Sanford & Benedict is a powerful, brooding wine. The high percentage of stems (75%) undoubtedly adds savory intensity, but it also masks some site character. The 2019 is a gorgeous wine, but it is also austere and not an especially typical expression of this site. I hope to have a chance to taste it in a decade."