Pinot fans, meet your newest Pinot pal. This bottle from Pence Winery (nope, no relation to the VP) combines everything great about a Pinot Noir with the unique characteristics of Santa Barbara-grown grapes. It’s a light bodied bottle full of red fruit flavors and bright acidity from the region’s limestone-rich soil. Pence Winery was inspired by the great Burgundies of France, and in particular by French winemakers’ focus on “terroir,” the mysterious alchemy of climate, soil and topography that so strongly influences a wine. Santa Barbara is known for its many microclimates and mix of limestone and sandy soil, which produces Pinot Noirs that are both acidic and fruity. With notes of red cherry and raspberry, and flavors of red plum and cola, this Pinot is pure Santa Barbara – with a tip of the chapeau to France. Tip of the Tongue Because of this wine’s lean profile and acidity, it’s a perfect pair for richer fish dishes, like salmon or sea bass. We also like it with baked pasta – it’s an elegant way to elevate le mac and cheese.
|