This is a mild, bright, cheery Pinot Noir from John Bendetti of Sante Arcangeli Winery in the Santa Cruz Mountains. The light cranberry and floral aromas belie and surprise on the palate with bursting flavors and a pleasant herbaceousness. This high-elevation, marine-influenced vineyard has lots of old vine pedigree. It was planted in the mid-80s by David Bruce of legend, using a mix of heritage clones.
This is an excellent example of cool climate Pinot Noir in a restrained and precise style. Only 30% new French oak was used. Alcohol is a reasonable 13.5%. The wine drinking beautifully right now and I would seek it out to enjoy within the next few years.
Enjoy this wine with almost anything classically paired with Pinot Noir. Salmon and Trout on the grill come to mind. Read John Benedetti’s Wine Characters interview here.