Sta. Rita Hills

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Located on the very cool western side of Santa Rita Hills, Fe Ciega Vineyard (Spanish for blind faith) consistently produces profound pinot noir. I don’t like to say I have favorites, but this vineyard is dear to my heart. With a fabulously complex aroma, dark color, and a huge impactful flavor, this wine is never shy, and particularly in a drought vintage like 2014.

While some other vineyards had unusually generous yields because of the ideal warm conditions during flowering, Fe Ciega suffered from the lack of rainfall. The vines grew with a decided lack of vigor and set a poor crop. Harvest weather was hot and we had to move quickly to capture the fruit before it turned to raisins, but we did it! And that meager crop gave us a wine of intensity and persistence.

As usual, Fe Ciega delivers lots of fruits and spices, but also a charmingly original rustic character that’s quite beguiling. The flavors are robust and fresh and the wine drinks well now, however time is on its side.

Blend: 100% Pinot Noir | Alc: 13.0% | Vinification: Traditional open top fermentation with 15% whole clusters| Barrel Aging: 15 Months in French oak barrels, 20% new | Total Production 256 Cases

Press Reviews

Antonio Galloni’s Vinous

“The 2014 Pinot Noir Fe Ciega Vineyard is bright and energetic, but also a bit tightly wound at this stage. As such, it will benefit from at least another 6-12 months in bottle. Exotic citrus and floral notes add an attractive upper register in a Pinot that is lifted and nicely focused throughout.”- AG 92+ Points

Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate

“The 2014 Pinot Noir Fe Ciega is an earthy, spicy and forest floor-scented effort that offers medium-bodied richness, supple texture and an herbal, slightly funky edge that won’t be for everyone. Nevertheless, it’s nicely balanced, has a core of sweet fruit and a good finish.”- JD