#9 on Hi-Time's North American Reds of 2024
Bill Wathen and Dick Dore have been making wine together since 1985, when they founded Foxen Vineyards and Winery at the historic Rancho Tinaquaic in Northern Santa Barbara County. Since that time their dedication has remained the same: the creation of small production, sustainably-farmed, vineyard-focused wines using a straightforward and minimalist approach to winemaking. They seem to be doing all the things right, as they now have an amazing following, and their tasting room has become a Santa Barbara Wine Country destination!
Santa Maria is a highly-prized growing region within Santa Barbara County. Foxen sources Pinot Noir from two of the more noteworthy vineyards in this area; Bien Nacido and Riverbench. Multiple clones of Pinot Noir are harvested from these two properties, fermented separately, then blended for increased complexity while being aged in French oak barrels.
JEB DUNNUCK 92 POINTS - "The appellation 2021 Pinot Noir Santa Maria Valley is a beauty as well as a brilliant value. Wild strawberries, framboise, dried flowers, and spice all emerge from this graceful, medium-bodied, elegant Pinot Noir that has tons of character. Destemmed and brought up in neutral oak, drink bottles over the coming 4-6 years."
WINE SPECTATOR 91 POINTS - "A lively red, showing light-bodied kirsch, cherry and raspberry notes laced with subtle potpourri and iris hints, offering a nice, streamlined feel. Drink now through 2030. 2,000 cases made."
Bill Wathen and Dick Dore have been making wine together since 1985, when they founded Foxen Vineyards and Winery at the historic Rancho Tinaquaic in Northern Santa Barbara County. Since that time their dedication has remained the same: the creation of small production, sustainably-farmed, vineyard-focused wines using a straightforward and minimalist approach to winemaking. They seem to be doing all the things right, as they now have an amazing following, and their tasting room has become a Santa Barbara Wine Country destination!
Santa Maria is a highly-prized growing region within Santa Barbara County. Foxen sources Pinot Noir from two of the more noteworthy vineyards in this area; Bien Nacido and Riverbench. Multiple clones of Pinot Noir are harvested from these two properties, fermented separately, then blended for increased complexity while being aged in French oak barrels.
JEB DUNNUCK 92 POINTS - "The appellation 2021 Pinot Noir Santa Maria Valley is a beauty as well as a brilliant value. Wild strawberries, framboise, dried flowers, and spice all emerge from this graceful, medium-bodied, elegant Pinot Noir that has tons of character. Destemmed and brought up in neutral oak, drink bottles over the coming 4-6 years."
WINE SPECTATOR 91 POINTS - "A lively red, showing light-bodied kirsch, cherry and raspberry notes laced with subtle potpourri and iris hints, offering a nice, streamlined feel. Drink now through 2030. 2,000 cases made."
Overall Rating
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