Paul Lato 2020 Pinot Noir “Victor Francis”  Santa Rita Hills 97 Points

This might be one of Paul’s best interpretations of this great vineyard.  Intensely aromatic, lush fruit, medium to full in body, but extremely well-balanced.  Bright red stone fruit on the mid-palate with a hint of spice leading into a long silky finish.

Paul Lato Notes: “This vineyard has a stunning south-facing hillside topography.  Combined with its relatively windy locale, this vineyard produces wines of high concentration.  This wine has pronounced notes of raspberry and tart blueberry.  It has a smooth texture, fine structure, and a zesty long finish with a hint of spice. It needs three years in the bottle but will last 12+ years.  Atticus has been an international favorite from its very first vintage.”

Robert Parker 97 Points: “From 11-year-old vines, the 2020 Pinot Noir Victor Francis Peake Ranch Vineyard has a pale ruby color, and its aromatics segue from cranberry and black raspberry to tones of licorice, flint, mossy bark, bergamot and mushroom powder. The medium-bodied palate is equally dynamic, its detailed flavor layers continually blossoming as it glides through the mouth. It has a powerful yet supple frame, seamless freshness and a tremendously long finish. Wow! This was matured for 16 months in 75% new French oak and 188 cases were made.”

Jeb Dunnuck 97 Points: “The 2020 Pinot Noir Victor Francis Peake Ranch Vineyard comes from the eastern, warmer side of the appellation and was destemmed and brought up in 75% new French oak. It has plenty of ripe cherry and framboise-like fruit as well as medium to full body, notes of dried herbs, flowers, and loamy earth, silky tannins, terrific overall balance, and one heck of a great finish. An incredibly complete, balanced, seamless Pinot Noir, it’s going to drink spectacularly well for a solid 10-12 years.”