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2006 PINOT NOIR FE CIEGA
Santa Rita Hills

One might assume that since we have such a mild climate here in southern California, the wines would not vary much from year to year, but that is simply not the case. Annual rainfall, weather and crop load are three of the main reasons for vintage variations. The wine from the Fe Ciega vineyard illustrates those differences--despite the fact that Rick Longoria does such an admirably consistent job farming his vineyard.

We have gone from a super intense wine in 2003 (tiny crop), to a lavishly rich wine in 2004 (hot year), to a lively and nuanced one in 2005 (heavy winter rainfall, big crop, ideal weather), to a concentrated and fresh one in 2006 (moderate crop, cool summer). The 2006 that we offer now is terrific because it is intensely flavored while maintaining focus and freshness.

As always, Fe Ciega offers lots of pretty floral and herb aromas with its blackberry fruit and an intriguing rustic, animal character that comes through in the finish. Although young, this wine drinks beautifully today.

2006 Pinot Noir Fe Ciega One Sheet

High Resolution Bottle Shot