In 1972, the iconic Sanford & Benedict vineyard was the first vineyard planted in the cool climate Sta Rita Hills. Comprised almost entirely of Monterey Shale from a landslide that occurred 10,000 years ago, this vineyard was planted to VitisVinifera on its own roots. At the time, a huge yet calculated risk on the par t of Michael Benedict. Today, the original plantings are still healthy and consistently producing magnificent and distinctive Pinot Noir fruit. Owned and farmed by the Terlato Family, the vision for Sanford is to produce wines that “tell the tale of the place”, with minimal intervention.
Aged for 13 months in French Oak barrels (35 to 40% new –depending on the vintage)
14 days in open top tanks with careful pump-overs and the occasional punch-down, depending on the vintage and associated levels of extraction
Trey Fletcher
Aromatic, Complex, Fresh, Layered
Cherry, Spice, Strawberry, White Pepper
Exudes earthy aromas of dried brush, along with spicy red fruits.
Rich, full, savory, elegant and layered yet approachable with a bright, silky palate. Well integrated and showing balanced acidity and subtle, ripe tannins.