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Region: California - Santa Barbara County
Grapes: PInot Noir
Alcohol: 13.9%
Notes on the Wine
A seductive nose reminiscent of ripe plum and blackberry, with layered components of earth, violets and Asian spice. The palate reveals supple tannins and lively acids accented with pretty hints of framboise and underlying notes of dark chocolate and rye.
2018 was a very ideal growing season. Above average rainfall refilled reservoirs and replenished soils. The vineyard experienced cooler temperatures which translated into below-average yields. Unlike most years, the vines did not require adjustments in the crop level to balance the crop load. We also continued to retrofit the existing trellis system with cross arms that allowed the canopy to intercept more light while at the same time ameliorating the fruit zone microclimate. Fruit on the vine was showing good tannic structure, crisp acid, and bright color which translated into expressive and interesting wines.
Notes on the Producer
A deep and abiding respect for Laetitia's estate-grown fruit is the mark of Eric Hickey's winemaking. Beginning his hands-on training in the cellar at the age of 16, Eric has lived and breathed Laetitia all the way to the top, where he is now the Head Winemaker and the winery's General Manager. "I keep it simple," he says, "and I stay eye-to-eye with our vineyard manager because the interplay between us is what determines the wines' quality. Everything done in the cellar starts with what we do out in the vineyard." While Eric makes a point of experimenting with small lots each vintage, his style is fundamentally built upon finding balance, finesse, and the essence of the fruit he has come to know for so many years.