Sea Smoke Pinot Noir Sta. Rita Hills Southing 2012

97 points PinotFile: "14.58% alc., pH 3.42, TA 0.65. The name refers to the south-facing hillside block of the estate vineyard. Grapes spent an evening in the cold room after picking and sorting and then 100% de-stemmed. Musts were cold soaked for 1 to 4 days, then inoculated with cultured yeasts. Manual punchdowns were carried out three times a day, with a total maceration time of 14 to 18 days. Free-run juice was transferred to tank for settling. Pressing was carried out at very low pressure. After settling, both free-run and press wines were racked to 55% new French oak barrels for 16 months aging. Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Gorgeous nose featuring spiced berries, violets, sous-bois and a hint of vanilla. The flamboyantly flavored core of black raspberry and plum is accented with spice and an undertone of earthy flora. Amazing fruit flavor, yet angelic, with a very soft and seamless demeanor, with oak adding complimentary seasoning. The fine-grain tannins are beautifully integrated and the typically bright Sta. Rita Hills acidity adds vibrancy. The finish is long and pleasing, filled with spicy plum goodness. This wine demands your attention from the get-go. Still stunning the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, when I drained the bottle. (12/11/14)"

93 points and 'Cellar Selection,' Wine Enthusiast: "Named after the famed vineyard’s south-facing slopes, this vintage is expertly crafted, with aromas of ripe red cherry, sandalwood, black pepper, graphite, purple flowers and damp pine needles. It’s complex, with dark red fruit and tickling cardamom spice set against fine-grained tannins. Quite precise and tight now, the violet and rose petal elements will expand beautifully with time, so drink 2019-2025. Alcohol 14.5%. (Apr 2015)"

93 points Anthony Dias Blue (The Tasting Panel): "Silky ripe cherry and sweet oak; juicy, long and polished with tangy acidity and lovely depth. (Dec 2014)"

Producer notes: "Southing refers to the south-facing hillside bluffs found on our estate vineyard. The 2012 Southing exhibits bright fruits, sassafras, fresh iris and damp earth. The fine tannins and minerality are enhanced by our estate vineyard’s characteristic cool climate acidity. Barrel aged 16 months in French oak (55% new). Alcohol 14.6%."