The Hilt : Bentrock Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021

Characteristics and tasting tips for the Bentrock Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021 by The Hilt

Tasting

Nose
The bouquet enchants with its aromatic complexity blending vibrant red fruits and fresh herbs.

Palate
The attack reveals a character that is both dark and seductive, carried by an elegant and powerful texture. The subtly spiced palate reveals a fine tension with well-integrated chalky tannins, offering a lively and refreshing finish that leaves an impression of freshness and balance enhanced by touches of blood orange and pomegranate.

Food and wine pairings

This Pinot Noir perfectly accompanies grilled white meats, Provencal herb-roasted poultry, or even duck breast with cherries. Its elegant structure and herbal notes also make it an ideal companion for wild mushrooms and aged soft cheeses.

An exceptional Pinot Noir revealing the full expression of the Californian terroir

The estate

Established in 2008 in California’s Santa Barbara County, The Hilt operates three distinct vineyards in the Santa Rita Hills and Santa Maria Valley appellations. Owned by Stan Kroenke, the estate has been led by winemaker Matt Dees since 2008, who favors sustainable viticulture without herbicides or pesticides. Specialized in pinot noir and chardonnay, The Hilt stands out for its extreme terroirs with poor soils and its meticulous parcelled Blends revealing the unique identity of each vineyard site.

The vineyard

The Californian Bentrock vineyard thrives on southeast-facing terroirs that are particularly favorable. The 14-year-old vines are spread across different blocks: block 4 A/B accounts for 60% of the Blend, block 13 makes up 25%, and block 9 completes the remaining 15%. This diversity brings complexity and depth to the final wine.

Winemaking and aging

Aging takes place over 12 months in French oak barrels, with 75% neutral barrels preserving the purity of the fruit and 25% new barrels providing structure and complexity.

Grape variety

100% Pinot Noir.