Cranberry and currant aromas are elevated with sagebrush in a charmingly rustic style on the nose of this bottling. There's a firm tension to the sip. Flavors start on a toast note before growing more tart, with cranberry, raspberry and pomegranate showing most prominently.

The 2021 Pinot Noir (Santa Lucia Highlands) is a lovely appellation-level wine. Crushed flowers, sweet red cherry fruit, cedar and cinnamon are all nicely lifted. Soft, silky tannins grace the long, delineated finish, with pretty floral top notes that linger. Delicious.

Moving to the Pinot Noirs, the appellation 2021 Pinot Noir Santa Lucia Highlands is up-front and charming, with light cherry and strawberry fruit, some leafy herb and underbrush nuances, medium body, and a soft, supple, incredibly drinkable profile. It will certainly scratch your California Pinot Noir itch.