At a glance

Producer

Racines

Region

Sta. Rita Hills, Santa Barbara County, California, USA

Grape variety

Pinot Noir

Wine type

Red

Body

Medium-bodied and Fruity

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$50-$65 USD

Tasting profile

Red cherries, wild strawberries, cranberry, dried rose petals, subtle earth and spice, mineral finish

Evolution: Fruit will gain depth, secondary notes of forest floor, tea leaf, and dried herbs; greater aromatic complexity

At peak: Silky texture, full aromatic expression, balance of fruit, acidity, and tertiary earthiness at peak

Structure

Acidity

Medium to high, lively

Tannins

Medium, fine-grained, elegant

Alcohol

13.0-13.5% ABV (estate typical)

Aging potential

Capable of graceful aging for 8-10 years post-vintage

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2026 to 2030

Optimal window

2024 to 2031

Current status

Approachable and youthful but structured for aging

Current condition

Fresh, vibrant fruit; developing complexity; tannins starting to soften

Racines Pinot Noir Sta. Rita Hills Cuvée is crafted for both freshness and subtle complexity typical of Sta. Rita Hills. The 2021 vintage has balanced structure and acidity, allowing for early enjoyment but with clear upside for 5-8 years of bottle age, slowly developing savory secondary aromatics and exquisite textural refinement.

Food pairing

Duck breast with cherry sauce, roast chicken, seared salmon, mushroom risotto, or dishes with truffle and herb accents

Serving

Decant

Not required

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Estate and partner vineyards use SIP Certified (Sustainability In Practice) or equivalent protocols: reduced chemical inputs, focus on soil health, cover cropping, manual viticulture, water conservation via drip irrigation, renewable energy for some winery operations, lightweight glass packaging

Racines partners with acclaimed vineyard sources in Sta. Rita Hills that emphasize low-impact farming and environmental stewardship (SIP Certified partners, not universally organic). Efforts include cover-cropping, reduced pesticide use, water efficiency, and renewable energy. Some glass and packaging choices further minimize carbon output, though not to the lightest extremes. No full carbon-neutral/organic/biodynamic certification, but above-average for California luxury producers with ongoing improvements. Most impact comes from transportation when exported; locally consumed bottles have a relatively lower carbon footprint.