2021 Dragonette 'Sanford & Benedict Vineyard' Pinot Noir Santa Rita Hills
Historic Sanford & Benedict, the first Pinot Noir vineyard in Santa Ynez Valley since 1971, features two distinct blocks of vines from 1999 and 1972. By purchasing fruit by the acre, we implement specialized pruning and organic farming. The 2021 vintage captures the vineyard's essence with rich red and black cherry flavors, showcasing the old-vine style and grace. Limited to just 350 cases, this exquisite edition, a worthy successor to the acclaimed 2020, offers delectable depth, complexity, and an elegant balance that's truly enticing.
James Suckling
Aromas of hibiscus, lemon, iron and strawberry follow through to a medium to full body with very fine tannins that melt into the wine. Lovely freshness. Succulent and juicy. Drink now or hold.
Vinous
The 2021 Pinot Noir Sanford & Benedict Vineyard is a gorgeous, beguiling wine. The 2021 is a blend of two blocks on the estate. A wine of dimension and intensity, the 2021 captures all the magic of this site. Dark blue/purplish fruit, wild flowers, spice and blood orange are some of the many nuances that come alive in this vibrant, mid-weight Pinot. Impressive.
Jeb Dunnuck
The 2021 Pinot Noir Sanford & Benedict Vineyard comes from a great site located on the southern side of the Sta. Rita Hills. Its medium ruby hue is followed by a pure, medium-bodied, incredibly elegant Pinot Noir offering red cherry and strawberry-like fruit, some leafy herb and floral nuances, nicely integrated tannins, and outstanding length. As with all the wines here, the winemaking is impeccable, and this beauty will benefit from 1-3 years and evolve for a decade in cold cellars.
Wine Spectator
This feels both open and tightly knit, with a lithe, racy frame holding a core of gently mulled black and red cherry and raspberry fruit together, while sassafras, sweet tobacco and singed cedar elements flitter around a zip of minerality on the finish. Distinctive.