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2020 Optik Bien Nacido Vineyard Pinot Noir

Not Currently In Auction

Latest Sale Price

October 29, 2023 - $26

Estimate

RATINGS

92Wine Spectator

A light, piercing and slightly high-toned version, with tobacco leaf and tarragon accents that are quickly caught from behind by bitter cherry, pomegranate seed and blood orange flavors. Very racy, taut acidity lines the finish.

92Vinous / IWC

...plump, juicy and so expressive...wonderfully complex Pinot that is juicy but also quite complex. Sweet red cherry, plum, kirsch, cinnamon and rose petal are all dialed up.

92Wine Enthusiast

Aromas of crushed stone, flint, baked raspberry, bright pomegranate and spicy clove make for a layered nose on this bottling. The palate offers hints of light herb, sandalwood and flashes of raspberry.

91Jeb Dunnuck

...bright cherry and strawberry fruits to go with background spice, floral, and dried herb aromatics. Nicely textured and medium-bodied, with ripe tannins...

REGION

United States, California, Central 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.