Melville, Block M Pinot Noir, Sta. Rita Hills, California, 2021

Overview of the Wine
There is no place on earth quite like the Sta. Rita Hills. The highly unusual east-west (or transverse) mountain range, close proximity to the cold Pacific, consistent coastal fog, and steady afternoon breezes together create ideal conditions for growing cold-climate Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Syrah. Ron Melville and his sons recognized that these exceptional conditions, combined with their commitment to “winegrowing,” would result in wines of remarkable quality. Melville Vineyards was established in 1996 in the heart of the Sta. Rita Hills and has since become one of the most highly-regarded estates in California.

With the guidance of Head Winegrower, Chad Melville, Melville’s full-time vineyard crew nurtures their 120 estate acres organically, paying close attention to the health of both the vines and the soil. Farming aggressively, yet carefully, and with the utmost respect to Mother Nature, helps encourage the vines to produce small amounts of intensely flavored/concentrated fruit. At the time of harvest, they consider the wines to already be made, and strive to not interfere with their natural path in the cellar. To this effect, they maintain a minimalist approach by aging their wines only in neutral French oak and stainless steel and utilize whole cluster fermentation to contribute to the depth, structure, and complexity of their wines.

Grape / Blend
Pinot Noir

Origin
Sta. Rita Hills, Santa Barbara, California

Winemaker's Tasting Notes
The epitome of “sense of place,” Block M mirrors in the glass the intensity endured at the hand of Mother Nature. Thick skinned berries create textural power and intensity, flooding the mouth with flavors of rhubarb, concentrated dried cassis, and warming fall spices. Hints of slow-drip coffee grounds follow with savory tannins, balanced by an electric freshness.

Block M holds up beautifully with grilled or braised red meats and rich sauces.

97 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate (2020, 2021 Scores Pending)
The 2020 Pinot Noir Block M is beautifully expressive this vintage, with very pretty scents of blackberry, raspberry and pomegranate with wafts of tar, lavender, prosciutto, mushrooms and blood orange. The medium-bodied palate is intensely concentrated and boasts fine, chalky tannins, mouthwatering acidity and loads of detail emerging on the long finish. Wow! 720 cases were made.

95 Points - James Suckling
Very clear aromas of terra-cotta and strawberries. Hibiscus as well. Spices like white pepper. Medium- to full-bodied. Linear and energetic with structure and intensity. Chewy yet agile.

Product size: 750ml