2019 Racines "Sanford & Benedict" Pinot Noir, Sta. Rita Hills, California, USA

ABOUT THE WINE
Sourced exclusively from the historic Sanford & Benedict Vineyard—the original Pinot Noir planting in the Sta. Rita Hills, established in 1971—this wine is a singular expression of one of California’s most storied sites. The vineyard’s north-facing slopes and marine sedimentary soils, combined with coastal fog and wind influence, yield Pinot Noir of profound aromatic complexity and balanced ripeness. Racines employs a minimalist, Burgundian-inspired approach: hand-harvested fruit, whole-cluster fermentation (in varying proportions), native yeasts, and aging in neutral French oak barrels. The 2019 vintage was long and even, allowing for a nuanced and detailed wine that bridges Old World texture with New World clarity. Pair with roast duck, wild mushroom risotto, or seared tuna with soy and ginger.

ABOUT THE PRODUCER
Racines is a partnership between two of Burgundy’s most revered domaines—Étienne de Montille and Brian Sieve of Domaine de Montille, and Rodolphe Péters of Pierre Péters Champagne—alongside American sommelier Justin Willett (of Tyler Winery). Established in Sta. Rita Hills, Racines is a pursuit of elegance, restraint, and terroir transparency in California wines. With an emphasis on Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from organically farmed, cool-climate vineyards, Racines blends Burgundian heritage with Californian expression. Their work in sites like Sanford & Benedict reflects a philosophy of patience, precision, and respect for the land, producing wines that are finely etched, age-worthy, and deeply rooted in place.