This was the Pinot Noir – the crown jewel – that inspired the entire current generation of southern California winemakers. I first tasted it in the 1980s, on assignment from Playboy magazine no less, when the appellation didn’t yet exist. The vineyard itself was established in 1971 by maverick vintners Richard Sanford and Michael Benedict. Countless advice at the time warned the two men that they were out of their minds, for the region was considered way too close to the Pacific Ocean and therefore too cold to grow grapes. Once the vineyard was proven, Richard Sanford established his eponymous winery and began making elegant, liltingly long Pinot Noir with the Sanford & Benedict grapes. Today, Sanford winery is owned by the Terlato Wine Company.

The 2017 Pinot Noir Sanford & Benedict Vineyard, aged 15 months in 30% new French oak, has a medium ruby-purple color and lovely aromas of blueberries, strawberries, raspberries and wafts of floral perfume with a spicy touch of aniseed. The medium-bodied palate is silky with expansive, perfumed fruits and seamless freshness, finishing long and layered. 2,172 cases produced. - EB

The 2017 Pinot Noir Sanford & Benedict Estate has as similar marine-like salinity as well as complex tea, leafy herbs, flowers, and assorted red and black fruit aromas and flavors. It's elegant and medium-bodied, with seamless texture and terrific balance.