While this type of wine's attributes include its smooth, lustrous feel as you drink, it also is well known for offering a complex combination of aromas and tastes. A grape grown in Sonoma's climate produces a wine full of rich flavor and with enjoyable undertones that are pleasantly surprising. For example, various Sonoma pinot noir wines have been noted for these characteristics:
- bright fruity notes of cherry and strawberry
- complex mushroom and other earthy flavoring
- aromas of violets, cedar, and blackberries
- spicy elements similar to coffees or allspice
As you can see from these descriptions, California produces many intriguing wine selections from this traditional grape varietal. Find your favorite by trying a Santa Maria pinot noir or bottles from Sonoma's best vineyards. With a range of choices available, we're certain you'll agree that pinots deserve their reputation as one of the finest, most interesting wine varieties.
Not all vineyards can produce wine from this especially demanding grape varietal. With its requirement of a relatively cool climate, the typical uneven ripening process, and otherwise fickle nature of this grape, many wine makers run out of patience in trying to work with this famous yet difficult variety. Santa Maria pinot noir choices are examples of a job well done. Each bottle is a tribute to the wine makers and to the vineyards that were able to withstand the demands of this varietal. With this in mind, you'll enjoy our selections of this lustrous, highly enjoyable wine even more. Browse our selection of Sonoma pinot noir wines or those from other regions, and compare the complex nature of the flavors and aromas found within each vintage. Red wines that took this much effort deserve to be enjoyed!