This is 100% Melville fruit from their Sta. Rita Hills estate, and is a collection of 16 pinot noir clones. 40% of the fruit was fermented as whole-clusters with 60% gently de-stemmed in small (1.5 ton) open-top fermenters. Total skin and stem contact averages 30 days (7 day cold soak, 2 + weeks of fermentation and 1 + week extended maceration). From the press, the wine is transferred directly into neutral barrels (10+ year old French oak), where it remains sur lie without sulfur until June, when it is gently racked for the first time and prepared for bottling in August.

The 2023 Melville Pinot Noir Estate from Santa Rita Hills is a notable example of a California Pinot Noir, produced by Melville in the Central Coast region. This wine hails from the Santa Barbara County's Santa Rita Hills appellation, an area renowned for producing high-quality Pinot Noir.

The 2023 vintage reflects the region's characteristic microclimate and terroir, which contribute to the overall profile of this wine. While specific reviews for this vintage have not been provided, Melville's Pinot Noir typically showcases a vibrant color and a complex array of aromas and flavors that have been well-received in previous vintages.

Pinot Noir from Santa Rita Hills is often celebrated for its balance and elegance, with a focus on purity of fruit and a silky texture. Melville's approach to winemaking usually emphasizes minimal intervention, allowing the natural characteristics of the grape to shine through. This results in a wine that can express a range of red fruit flavors, such as cherry and raspberry, often complemented by notes of spice and earth.

While the alcohol content and closure type are not specified, it is common for California Pinot Noirs to feature moderate alcohol levels, typically around 13-14%, which can enhance the wine's balance and drinkability. The absence of specific reviews makes it difficult to provide a detailed assessment of this particular vintage, but based on Melville's reputation and the renowned quality of Pinot Noir from Santa Rita Hills, it is likely that this wine would appeal to both casual wine drinkers and connoisseurs alike.

Overall, the 2023 Melville Pinot Noir Estate from Santa Rita Hills is expected to be a fine representation of its varietal and region, offering a taste of California's celebrated Pinot Noir tradition.