Luli Santa Rita Hills Pinot Noir 2020
(Santa Barbara County, California)

Notes from the Winemaker:
Seeking to create a new line of handcrafted wines from top-notch fruit at affordable prices, Luli was launched in 2007 by the combined knowledge, skills, and experience of Master Sommelier Sara Floyd, vineyard manager Mark Pisoni, and winemaker Jeff Pisoni. The Pisoni brothers grew up farming in the Santa Lucia Highlands with their father Gary, one of California’s most respected growers, sourcing fruit for Luli from vineyards in or near the same land they call home.

Wine is life for Sara and the Pisoni brothers, so the desire to bring family and friends together to swirl a glass of fine wine for a reasonable price is a passion for all three. Possibly one of the best winemaking teams in history, this successful partnership illustrates the talents and strengths of three different masterminds in each vintage and every glass poured.

The Vineyard:
The grapes for the 2020 Luli Pinot Noir from the Sta. Rita Hills are sourced from five different exceptional, sustainably-farmed vineyards: La Encantada, Pali, Peak, Church, and Zotovich. Located at 100 to 700 ft above sea level, these vineyards benefit from the Region 1 Climate Classification, meaning cool-climate with heavy fog and strong winds. The appellation is unique in several ways. Running east to west and opening up to the ocean, each vineyard contains very different soils, ranging from sandy marine sediment to alluvial hillside terrain.

Tasting Notes:
An exciting departure from its distant northern neighbor the Santa Lucia Highlands, the 2020 Luli Santa Rita Hills Pinot Noir marks the first vintage from this famed, coastal California AVA. A vibrant ruby core dances in the glass with each swirl, while vibrant notes of cherry pie, raspberry, and fresh cranberry fill the air with an intoxicating melange of aromas. This distinct freshness carries over onto the palate as this wine remains light on its feet. Bright, juicy flavors of redcurrant, kirsch, and strawberry compote play beautifully with more savory notes of cedar, violets, sassafras and crushed lavender. On the finish, bright acidity and fine-grained tannin marry to complete this exquisite Pinot Noir.

Cases Produced: 2,800
ABV: 14.1%