Gold Star Pinot Noir 2016

Santa Barbara County is home to some of California’s finest Pinot Noir, “yielding Pinots that have a keen richness, structure, and acidity,” writes Decanter. And Gold Star hails from one of its top estates. Our California expert, Clare, used her insider connections to secure this one-off parcel “for a song.” The only condition? We can’t reveal the winery (their regular customers pay much more than you).

We can tell you that the premium fruit for Gold Star benefited from Santa Barbara County’s long, sunny days and unique east-to-west valleys, which funnel in cooling breezes from the Pacific Ocean. These conditions make for ripe, concentrated flavors – and were at their apex in 2016, the fifth in a string of stellar Golden State vintages.

In the glass, look forward to expressive notes of fresh raspberry and bramble. On the palate, plump, juicy berry flavors are underpinned by touches of sweet spice, thanks to light aging in fine French oak. Well-structured with soft, food-friendly tannins, this silky Pinot is so versatile it gets a ‘gold star’ for food pairing. It’ll be delicious with nearly anything (we suggest grilled fish or creamy cheeses), but it’s also smooth enough to enjoy on its own.

Clare could only secure so much at this exceptional price. Hurry for a taste of this luscious Pinot exclusive.