The 2022 The Hilt Estate Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir is a distinguished offering from the Central Coast region of California, specifically Santa Barbara's Santa Rita Hills. Crafted by Hilt, this Pinot Noir presents a vivid snapshot of its terroir, showcasing the distinctive characteristics of the region.

Professional reviewers have praised this wine for its complexity and depth. Jeb Dunnuck awarded it a score of 93, highlighting its "black cherries, assorted darker berries, leafy herbs, sage, rose, and hints of iodine." Dunnuck notes that this Pinot Noir is medium-bodied and complex, with a "pretty, almost racy" profile that evolves considerably with air. He recommends decanting the wine if consumed soon and anticipates a drinking window of 10-12 years.

Vinous, through the lens of Antonio Galloni, also rated the wine 93, describing it as "glorious" with a rush of "inky dark fruit, spice, lavender, licorice, and mocha." Galloni emphasizes its plush and explosive nature, noting its "tremendous textural density" and describing it as a "large-scale, voluptuous wine." This evaluation underscores the wine's bold and impressive presence, making it a standout among its peers.

With an alcohol content of 14.1%, this Pinot Noir delivers both in aromatic complexity and structural depth. The use of cork closure aligns with traditional practices, perhaps contributing to its potential for aging. Overall, the 2022 The Hilt Estate Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir is a testament to the quality of wine emerging from this Californian sub-appellation, appealing to those who appreciate a wine that combines both intensity and elegance.