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2008 Foxen Bien Nacido Vineyard Block 8 Pinot Noir

Not Currently In Auction

Latest Sale Price

March 24, 2024 - $31

Estimate

RATINGS

93Robert M. Parker Jr.

It is slightly broader and more savory, in a fuller-bodied, richer style than the Block N, but only marginally so. This is another big, deep wine, and in the portfolio of Foxen Pinots, the second biggest and richest wine of the 2008s.

91Wine Spectator

Serves up a mix of ripe, rich, high-toned fruit, with layers of black cherry, plum, wild berry and spice. Full-bodied and deep, yet maintains a sense of elegance and finesse. Ends with chewy tannins.

91Vinous / IWC

Exotic, smoky aromas of raspberry and cherry compote, spicecake and licorice. Lush, gently sweet dark berry flavors show impressive depth and are enlivened by cracked pepper and a sexy Indian spice quality. The finish repeats the spicy note

REGION

United States, California, South Coast, Santa Barbara County, Santa Maria Valley

Santa Barbara County is not an AVA, but a region just south of San Luis Obispo that includes the Santa Ynez Valley and Santa Maria Valley appellations. Wine has been produced in the area since the 18th century when Spanish missionaries planted vineyards. It wasn’t until the 1990s, however, that producers focused on growing premier grapes for fine wines. During the 1990s more than 10,000 acres of vineyards were planted, and today there are nearly 20,000 acres of vineyards. The region received a big bump in recognition and prestige when the popular film “Sideways” was shot there in 2004. Because the region is affected by maritime weather, it is relatively cool climate makes it ideal for Chardonnay. Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir and an increasingly adventuresome number of varietals are also grown successfully in Santa Barbara County.

TYPE

Red Wine, Pinot Noir

This red wine is relatively light and can pair with a wide variety of foods. The grape prefers cooler climates and the wine is most often associated with Burgundy, Champagne and the U.S. west coast. Regional differences make it nearly as fickle as it is flexible.