Illustrious names like de Montille and Péters are behind this French-American co-production. Smoke and tart, red berry notes rise from the glass, revealing streaks of cranberry and Morello cherry. The palate then reveals a richer, smoother seam of gently vanilla-kissed cherry, but all remains absolutely slender and sinuous, yet concentrated. A wonderful smoky resonance persists.

Racines is a collaboration between Tyler Winery’s Justin Willett, Domaine de Montille’s Étienne de Montille and Brian Sieve, and Rodolphe Péters of Champagne Pierre Péters, working with entirely Sta. RIta Hills fruit. For the most part, the entire lineup levels-up the intensity and structure of the Tyler wines, as is the case with their Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir. Sourced from multiple sites across the appellation with a backbone of La Encantada Vineyard. Meaty, dense and reminiscent of a damp forest on the nose and palate, with a balanced, dark-fruited, saline-heavy finish. (Drink between 2022-2035)

The 2018 Pinot Noir Sta. Rita Hills Cuvee is a gorgeous appellation-level wine. Crushed flowers, mint, sage, cedar, tobacco, star anise and rose petal give the 2018 a striking aromatic upper register. Savory, deep and yet light on its feet, the 2018 has so much to offer. This is such a pretty wine, and a terrific introduction to both the vintage and the Racines lineup. Vineyard sites are Domaine de la Côte, Encantada and a few barrels from S&B. (Drink between 2020-2030)