Alma Rosa, 'El Jabali,' Pinot Noir, Sta. Rita Hills, Santa Barbara, California, 2021

Overview of the Wine
Situated on the north-facing slopes of the Santa Rita Hills in Santa Barbara County, the Alma Rosa estate vineyard, El Jabali, was first planted in 1983 by California wine pioneer Richard Sanford, who founded Alma Rosa Winery in 2005. 

Winemaker
Samra Morris

Grape / Blend
100% Pinot Noir

Origin
Santa Rita Hills, Santa Barbara, California

Winemaker's Tasting Notes
Alma Rosa’s estate vineyard, El Jabali, was originally planted in 1983 by winery founder Richard Sanford. The 2021 El Jabali Pinot Noir reveals a radiantly deep ruby hue in the glass. Seductive aromas of red cherries, red currants, rhubarb, herbs and flowers harmonize gracefully, showcasing the terroir of Alma Rosa’s estate vineyard. On the palate, delectable notes of red cherries, strawberries, and baking spices are framed by vibrant acidity and alluringly silky, seductive tannins. 

96 Points - Jeb Dunnuck
Moving to the reds and a wine that just about jumps out of the glass with its aromatics of spiced black cherries, black raspberries, new leather, and exotic baking spices, the 2021 Pinot Noir El Jabali Vineyard hits the palate with medium to full bodied richness, a rounded, layered mouthfeel, beautifully integrated acidity, and a great finish. It's a stunning Pinot Noir to drink over the coming 7-8 years, if not longer.

95 Points - James Suckling
Dark fruit, buttressed by wet earth, bark and forest flowers. Medium-bodied with very fine tannins and vivid, polished tannins. Lovely texture. Hints of fresh herbs. Subtle. Drink or hold.

95 Points - Wine Enthusiast
Bosnian-born winemaker Samra Morris is taking a ripe and spicy direction with these Pinot Noirs, and the results are satisfying. Detailed aromas of blueberry, crushed slate, sagebrush and concentrated lavender lead from the nose into a palate that coats the mouth, offering ginger snap, violet, licorice and rounded stewed-berry flavors.

Product size: 750ml