Cambria Julia's Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021

Cambria Julia's Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021 is an exceptionally expressive, elegant, and character-driven cool-climate red wine from the heart of Santa Barbara County. Sourced from its namesake estate vineyard—originally planted in 1972 on the ancient alluvial benchmarks of the Santa Maria Valley—this single-vineyard bottling benefits from a uniquely prolonged growing season shaped by consistent Pacific fog and ocean breezes. The fruit is carefully fermented and aged for several months in French oak barrels (a small portion being new) to beautifully synthesize structural depth with pristine varietal purity. In the glass, it reveals a brilliant, translucent ruby color. The highly aromatic and fragrant nose opens with radiant layers of ripe pomegranate, wild strawberries, and dark maraschino cherries, intricately woven with nuance of lavender, fresh rose petals, toasted sage, and a delicate hint of earthy underbrush. On the palate, this medium-bodied Pinot Noir is remarkably vibrant, sleek, and lively, driving juicy cran-raspberry and dark berry flavors over a framework of supple, fine-grained tannins and a crisp line of natural, refreshing acidity before culminating in a long, beautifully balanced, and subtly spiced finish.

Food Pairing: Pairs beautifully with pan-seared duck breast, cedar-plank grilled salmon, rustic wild mushroom risotto, or herb-roasted pork tenderloin.

93 Points - Wine Enthusiast

Tart and fresh aromas of red plum, strawberry and lightly toasted sage and marjoram draw the nose into this zesty, widely available bottling. The palate lands with pleasantly brisk cran-pom-raspberry flavors, as lavender and rose petal qualities add nuance.