2022 Lloyd
Pinot Noir
Sta. Rita Hills, Santa Barbara County
94 Points - The Tasting Panel
Lloyd by Robert Lloyd Pinot Noir is a bold yet elegant expression of California winemaking, crafted from 100% Pinot Noir sourced exclusively from the renowned Sta. Rita Hills, a region celebrated for producing exceptional Pinot Noir. Winemaker Rob Lloyd brings his passion for rich, approachable wines to life with this carefully crafted bottling. The wine undergoes cool fermentation to preserve the delicate aromatics of Sta. Rita Hills fruit, followed by aging in French oak barrels to enhance depth and add subtle spice.
This wine pours a vibrant ruby hue, revealing enticing aromas of black cherry, ripe raspberry, and a touch of baking spice. On the palate, it offers a harmonious blend of red and black berry flavors, complemented by notes of vanilla, cocoa, and a hint of earthiness. The mouthfeel is velvety and luxurious, with soft, well-integrated tannins balanced by a lively acidity that adds freshness and energy to the wine. The finish is long and elegant, leaving traces of fruit and subtle oak spice that linger gracefully.
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This Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, including roasted duck, grilled salmon, herb-crusted lamb, and mushroom risotto. Its bold flavors also complement seared tuna, pork tenderloin, and rich cheeses such as creamy brie, camembert, and smoked gouda, making it a versatile choice for any meal or gathering.
Our Pinot Noir grapes are sourced from La Niña and Rio Vista Vineyards - two standout sites that capture the appellation’s cool-climate character. La Niña, on the western edge, delivers structure, spice, and earthiness from its fog-kissed slopes, while Rio Vista, to the east, brings ripe cherry, plum, and floral lift thanks to slightly warmer conditions. Together, they create a bold yet balanced Pinot - silky, savory, and unmistakably Sta. Rita Hills.
Crafted from 100% Pinot Noir grapes sourced exclusively from La Viña and Rio Vista Vineyards in the Sta. Rita Hills, both renowned for producing exceptional fruit. The winemaking process begins with submerged cap fermentation in 100% stainless steel, a technique that enhances extraction while preserving the vibrant aromatics and delicate fruit character of the grapes. After fermentation, the wine is aged for 10 months in French oak barrels, which impart depth, subtle spice, and a refined structure. Following barrel aging, the wine spends an additional 12 months maturing in the bottle to achieve balance, complexity, and elegance. This careful process highlights the unique terroirs of La Viña and Rio Vista vineyards, resulting in a bold yet graceful Pinot Noir that showcases the best of Sta. Rita Hills.