Introduction
Melville Estate Pinot Noir Sta. Rita Hills 2022 is a pristine and highly expressive embodiment of cool-climate Pinot Noir from one of California’s most esteemed appellations. Produced by Melville Winery, a pioneering family-owned estate dedicated to crafting exceptional wines from their own vineyards, this wine is a direct reflection of the unique terroir of the Sta. Rita Hills AVA in Santa Barbara County. This region is globally recognized for its unique East-West transverse mountain range, which allows direct exposure to the cold, marine air and fog from the Pacific Ocean. These conditions lead to an exceptionally long, cool growing season, ideal for cultivating Pinot Noir that develops profound aromatic complexity, crisp acidity, and a refined textural profile. The 2022 vintage, characterized by a return to more balanced conditions, provided optimal ripening, positioning this Pinot Noir as a vibrant, pure, and authentic testament to Melville’s meticulous viticulture and the unparalleled pedigree of the Sta. Rita Hills.
Character Description
The Melville Estate Pinot Noir Sta. Rita Hills 2022 displays a brilliant, translucent ruby-red hue with subtle garnet reflections. It offers an intensely aromatic and captivating bouquet of bright red berries—think wild strawberry, tart cherry, and cranberry—elegantly interwoven with intriguing savory and earthy notes of forest floor, dried herbs (like thyme or bay leaf), black tea, and a subtle hint of saline minerality. On the palate, it delivers a light to medium-bodied and exquisitely silky texture, with vibrant red fruit and savory flavors that mirror the nose. It’s supported by fine-grained, integrated tannins that provide graceful structure and a long, expansive finish, balanced by a refreshing, saline-driven acidity that ensures purity and remarkable tension. The finish is persistent, pure, and exceptionally elegant, leaving a lingering impression of vibrant red fruit, underlying savory complexity, and the profound, unadulterated character that defines a world-class, cool-climate Pinot Noir.
Perfect Pairings
This elegant and mineral-driven Pinot Noir is an exceptional partner for a wide range of delicate to medium-bodied dishes, perfectly complementing its vibrant fruit and refined structure. It pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or duck breast with berry reductions, grilled salmon or other rich fish, and wild mushroom risotto. Its savory notes also make it an ideal accompaniment to pork tenderloin with herbs, various charcuterie, and soft, earthy cheeses like goat cheese or Brie. The wine’s purity and compelling qualities make it a fantastic choice for a celebratory dinner, a contemplative evening, or for those who appreciate a focused and authentic red wine that truly expresses its cool-climate origin. Serving it slightly chilled will enhance its intricate aromatics and refreshing qualities.
About the Winery
Melville Winery is a family-owned and operated estate located in the heart of the Sta. Rita Hills AVA in Santa Barbara County. Established in 1996, Melville is a pioneer in the region, dedicated exclusively to the production of estate-grown, cool-climate Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Syrah. Their philosophy centers on meticulous dry farming, minimal intervention in the cellar, and a deep respect for the unique terroir of their vineyards. With every step of the winemaking process handled in-house, from hand-harvesting to gentle pressing and native fermentation, Melville strives to produce wines that are pure, authentic expressions of their origins. The Estate Pinot Noir is a true representation of their commitment to showcasing the profound influence of the Sta. Rita Hills’ maritime climate and unique soils on their wines, embodying freshness, complexity, and a genuine sense of place.
