Frequently Asked Questions
The Fess Parker Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir is a masterful expression of cool-climate viticulture, offering a harmonious blend of elegance and complexity. Aged for nine months in 100% French oak, with 33% new barrels, this wine dazzles with layered aromas and flavors of ripe cranberry, strawberry, and blueberry complemented by a touch of warm spice. Its velvety texture, bright acidity, and precise balance make it an ideal choice for pairing with poultry, pork, or mushroom dishes. Crafted from premier vineyard sites in the Sta. Rita Hills, this Pinot Noir highlights the region's signature minerality and grace, delivering a persistent, satisfying finish perfect for any wine enthusiast.
Process & Profile
The Fess Parker Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir is produced using 100% Pinot Noir grapes sourced from premier vineyards in the Sta. Rita Hills, including Rio Vista, Ashley's, and Parker West. The wine undergoes meticulous barrel aging for nine months in French oak, with 33% new barrels. This process imparts layers of complexity while preserving the wine's natural purity and balance. With an alcohol content of 13.8%, moderate acidity (0.588 g/100mL), and a pH of 3.64, this wine exemplifies the light- to medium-bodied character and elegance that Pinot Noir enthusiasts treasure.Tasting Notes
The Fess Parker Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir delights the palate with a medley of vibrant flavors and aromas:- Nose: Aromas of cherry, rose petal, savory spice, and fresh herbs with hints of vanilla and forest floor.
- Palate: A bright combination of cranberry, strawberry, and spice, accented by earthy undertones and a touch of minerality. Its natural acidity gives the wine a refreshing vibrancy, leading to a smooth, lingering finish.
What Makes It Special
This wine stands out for its reflection of *terroir*—capturing the distinctive qualities of Sta. Rita Hills' cool, coastal climate and sandy soils. The careful use of French oak enhances its complexity without overpowering the delicate fruit and earthy notes. Produced by the family-run Fess Parker Winery, this Pinot Noir consistently delivers superior quality and value, garnering high ratings from wine critics.How to Enjoy
The Fess Parker Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, making it a versatile choice for meals or special occasions:- Perfect Pairings: Complement its flavors with roasted pork, grilled salmon, duck, mushroom risotto, or charcuterie.
- Serving Tips: Serve slightly chilled at 55-60°F in a Pinot Noir glass to enhance its aromatic profile.
- Occasion: Ideal for intimate dinners, celebrations, or simply savoring a glass on its own.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key tasting notes of Fess Parker Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir?
Fess Parker Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir is bursting with flavors such as spice, cranberry, light blueberry, and strawberry. It also features earthy aromas of currant, wild cherry, loamy earth, and sagebrush, offering balance and a lingering finish.
What is the alcohol content of this wine?
The Fess Parker Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir has an alcohol content of 13.8%.
Is this wine dry or sweet?
This wine is dry. Pinot Noir is almost always made in a dry style, where the sugar from the grape must is converted into alcohol during fermentation.
What foods pair well with Fess Parker Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir?
Pinot Noir pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, duck, pork, and mushroom-based dishes. Its balanced acidity and subtle fruit flavors work especially well with herb-infused meals and earthy flavors.
What makes Sta. Rita Hills a unique region for Pinot Noir?
The Sta. Rita Hills appellation is recognized for its cool-climate vineyards and unique terroir. The sandy soils and cooling marine influence create ideal conditions for producing Pinot Noir with bright acidity, elegance, and complex flavors.
How long is this wine aged, and what barrels are used?
The Fess Parker Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir is aged for 9 months in 100% French oak barrels, 33% of which are new. This aging process imparts subtle oak, spice, and texture to the wine.
What temperature should I serve this wine?
Fess Parker Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir is best served slightly chilled, around 55–60°F. You can refrigerate it for 15–30 minutes before serving and allow it to warm slightly as you enjoy.
What are the typical aromas and flavors of Pinot Noir?
Pinot Noir wines are known for aromas of red fruits like cherries and raspberries, with earthy undertones such as forest floor or mushrooms. When aged in oak, they can also exhibit notes of vanilla, spice, and smoke. The palate is often light to medium-bodied with bright acidity and silky tannins.
How many calories are in a serving of Pinot Noir?
A 5-ounce serving of Pinot Noir typically contains around 125 calories. A standard 750 ml bottle contains approximately 625 calories.
What makes Fess Parker's Pinot Noir special?
Fess Parker's Pinot Noir showcases the best characteristics of Sta. Rita Hills, combining the appellation's fresh, fruit-forward profile with earthy, complex layers. The meticulous use of French oak barrels and quality vineyard sources—such as Ashley's, Rio Vista, and Parker West Vineyards—enhance its quality and distinctiveness.
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