Sea Smoke 2022 Southing Pinot Noir

The 2022 “Southing” is a graceful yet expressive estate-Pinot Noir that strikes a compelling balance between finesse and depth. Elegant fruit, lifted aromatics, and refined tannins make it an excellent choice for both near-term enjoyment and cellar aging.

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Origins & Craftsmanship

This wine is crafted exclusively from the vineyard estate of Sea Smoke Cellars in the Sta. Rita Hills AVA on California’s Central Coast. It is 100% Pinot Noir grown on cool-climate blocks, benefiting from coastal breezes, well-drained soils, and rigorous canopy management to ensure concentration and purity. The 2022 vintage was harvested by hand and underwent a cold-soak period followed by 14–18 days of open-top barrel fermentations and gentle maceration. After pressing at very low pressure to minimise bitterness, the wine was aged in French oak barrels (approximately 42% new) for about 16 months before bottling without fining or filtration. The final alcohol content is 14.7% ABV.

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Tasting Profile

Nose: A beautiful bouquet of fresh currant, strawberry, and rose petal opens the glass, followed by touches of dried cherry, fennel, clove and nutmeg. There’s a definite sense of slate-dust minerality and coastal lift in the background.
Palate: The entry is lush but taut—ruby and darker red fruits dominate (Rainier cherry, cranberry, tart raspberry), balanced by cool-climate acidity and refined tannins. Mid-palate spice (clove, white pepper) and subtle forest floor or underbrush accent deepen the profile.
Finish: The wine finishes with elegance—fine, persistent tannins frame lingering red-fruit echoes and a dry mineral thread. The acidity and structure give the finish a clean lift that holds beyond the fruit.

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Quick Overview