2018 Paul Lato Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir Horizontal

“Brought up in 65% new barrels (for 15 months), the 2018 Pinot Noir Atticus John Sebastiano Vineyard is a slightly deeper hued release and gives up lots of black raspberry and spiced strawberry fruit as well as subtle background oak, plenty of spice, orange, and incense notes, medium to full body, and bright yet integrated acidity. It's another wine that's going to benefit from another year in bottle and shine for 7-8 years or more. A great California success story, Polish immigrant Paul Lato started as a cellar hand in a Santa Maria co-op/custom crush and has worked his way up to being one of the leading producers of artisanal, world class wines in California today. These aren’t lightweight wines, yet they never lose their sense of balance and elegance. I always describe the wines as having a slightly Old World style, but with one foot planted firmly in California. As I hope the reviews show, his 2018s are incredible wines across the board.” (03/2021)

“The 2018 Pinot Noir Atticus John Sebastiano Vineyard has a medium ruby-purple color and deep scents of crushed cranberries, blueberries, violet and Earl Grey tea leaves with an undercurrent of fragrant earth. The palate is medium-bodied, concentrated and satiny but light on its feet, and it finishes long and layered. 150 cases were made. (EB)” (03/2021)

“The 2018 Pinot Noir C'est la Vie Drum Canyon Vineyard offers terrific depth and substance. There is good depth and pliancy, with terrific up-front fruit and the structure to back that all up. Purplish berry fruit, licorice, lavender and blood orange all build effortlessly as the wine opens up in the glass. Even with all of its obvious power, the 2018 remains reticent. (AG)” (08/2020)