Sea Smoke Ten Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir 2017 Rated 95WE

Wine Enthusiast Review
Rated 95
Candied cherry and darker berry aromas meet with star anise, crumple purple flowers and crushed slate on the intoxicating nose of this bottling from the estate biodynamically farmed monopole vineyard. Intense acidity and lavish tannins make for a simultaneously bright and rich expression on the palate, where black cherry and black raspberry are lofted by cardamom and mace.

Sea Smoke Ten Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir 2017

The boldest and most powerful expression in the Sea Smoke lineup, Ten 2017 delivers depth, structure, and the signature cool-climate intensity of the Sta. Rita Hills.
Crafted from ten Pinot Noir clones grown on the estate's meticulously farmed hillside vineyards, this vintage offers richness, purity, and exceptional aging potential.

Key Details

• Producer: Sea Smoke
• Region: Sta. Rita Hills, Santa Barbara County, California
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• Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
• Style: Dense, structured, cool-climate Pinot Noir
• Clones: Ten distinct Pinot Noir clones
• ABV: ~14%
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Tasting Notes

• Black cherry, blackberry, and dark plum
• Notes of violet, cocoa, and subtle baking spice
• Rich, layered palate with firm yet polished tannins
• Long, powerful finish with mineral tension and cool-climate lift

Profile & Craft

• Estate-grown fruit from biodynamically farmed hillside vineyards
• Fermented in small lots with gentle extraction
• Aged in French oak for depth, structure, and aromatic complexity
• Ten represents the most intense and concentrated Sea Smoke cuvee

Serving & Pairing

• Serve at 55-60°F for optimal expression
• Pairs with duck, lamb, mushroom dishes, and aged cheeses
• Ideal for collectors and special-occasion drinking
• Aging potential of 10-15+ years