The Hilt 2018 Pinot Noir “Radian” Santa Rita Hills, 97 Points

Vinous 97 Points: “A stunning bottle, the 2018 Pinot Noir Radian brings together all the elements that make the Hilt wines so compelling. Rich, deep and beautifully resonant in the glass, the Radian has so much to offer. A rush of dark red/purplish berry fruit, rose petal, lavender, mint and sweet spice build in a dramatic, statuesque Pinot loaded with character and personality. The interplay of textural richness and energy is simply breathtaking.”

Matt Dees Winemaker: “Dark and brooding with a cooling herbal temperament. Typical of site with strong notes of black pepper, blackberry, pancetta and mint, but with an added floral note in 2018 reminiscent of lavender. Fruit-driven and coiled with a succulent, savory side and tons of kinetic energy. Black tea, black currant pastilles and cured meat. Finely ground espresso alongside pine resin and forest floor leaves. Structurally it is redolent of the diatomaceous earth on which it grows, as it is ultimately fresh, cooling, fine grained and balanced. A wine of polar opposites…dark, sweet and luscious black fruit alongside a tremendous light touch with elegance, pedigree and refinement. It zips up on the back-palate to show off tremendous poise, tension and energy. Serve today with the true food of kings: simple and pure carnitas tacos…or put in your cellar and reap the benefits in 8 years.”