2020 Herman Story Smash City Pinot Noir

Herman Story Wines are made by Russell P. From, who calls himself “proprietor, winemaker and waste water specialist at Herman Story Wines.” From named his venture after his grandfather, and From is a one-man enterprise. From was a student at a nearby university when he started working in restaurants with good wine lists. He was soon enthralled with wines and the idea of winemaking and by the early 2000s was making his own wines. Based in Paso Robles, he sources grapes from up and down the California Coast, focusing on Syrah, Grenache, and Mourvedre and Rhone-style red and white blends. From likes one-of-a-kind labels and iconic wines names, somewhat in the style of his Central Coast neighbor, Manfred Krankl. From’s 2013 On the Road Grenache features a yellow highway dividing line on asphalt on the label. His 2013 white blend called Tomboy shows the ripped back pocket of a pair of jeans. With very limited production, Herman Story Wines are available generally only through the mailing list. Reviewers have been impressed. “A serious Central Coast producer, the Herman Story Winery builds up its strength and credibility with each new vintage,” according to Robert M. Parker Jr. .”Kudos to winemaker Russell From…”

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.

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.