To understand the wines made by The Hilt, one might need to come visit the hard and harsh conditions under which they are born. The unobstructed, ocean facing east-west valley known as Sta. Rita Hills Valley is a complex AVA. One could divide it into four quadrants: northern-facing, southern-facing, close to the ocean, and further inland from the ocean. With such a frame, The Hilt’s favorite vineyards are in the northern-facing, closest to the ocean, windswept quadrant. These sites are the worst place for a grape grower, but the best ones for a winemaker.
Rancho Salsipuedes, where The Hilt wines make their home, provides vineyards planted on land nearly 13 unobstructed miles from the ocean on the west. This unique, large and sprawling property offers a range of altitudes, aspects, soil types, and microclimates, giving winemaker Matt Dees a patchwork of vineyard parcels from which to select grapes and create wines with distinctive styles.
The Estate wines are defined by the fruit and flavors of our little southwestern corner of the Sta. Rita Hills. They speak of the nuances and complexities of our property as a whole. These wines take into account the many aspects, clones, soil types, and other properties of our estate. They give us the maximum amount of blending components and, represent the most complete wines in our portfolio.
"Vivid ruby/plum-hued and semi-opaque, the 2023 Pinot Noir Hilt Estate offers beautiful black raspberries, sappy, minty flowers, and spicy wood. It's medium-bodied, has a pure, layered mouthfeel, ripe tannins, and a great finish. This strikes a good balance between richness and elegance and has solid tannins and outstanding length." 93 Points, Jeb Dunnuck
Producer: The Hilt
Country: USA
Region: California
Varietal: Pinot Noir
Appellation: Sta. Rita Hills
Vintage: 2023
Size: 750ml