The 2023 Deovlet Pinot Noir from Zotovich Family Vineyard is a pure expression of Sta. Rita Hills, showcasing the precision and elegance that have made Ryan Deovlet one of California's most celebrated winemakers. This single-vineyard bottling comes from a site known for its sandy, mineral-rich soils and cool maritime climate, producing Pinot Noir of brightness, clarity, and layered complexity.
Zotovich Family Vineyard sits at a gentle elevation in the heart of Sta. Rita Hills and is planted to top Pinot Noir clones. Careful vineyard management and hand-harvested fruit yield small berries with concentrated flavor and structural finesse. Vineyard Manager Ben Merz, a Cal Poly alumnus in Viticulture, oversees farming practices aimed at quality fruit and healthy vines. Soils are dominated by diatomaceous earth and sandy loam, which provide excellent drainage and low vigor. Ryan Deovlet ferments the grapes with careful attention to whole clusters and ages the wine in fine French oak, allowing the vineyard's distinctive aromatics and minerality to shine.
In the glass, the wine offers vivid red fruit notes of raspberry and cranberry, floral hints, and subtle spice. Savory undertones and gentle earthiness add depth while fine tannins and bright acidity provide structure and balance. The overall effect is an elegant wine that reflects both the site and the winemaker's restraint.
Why You Will Love It
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Prime Sta. Rita Hills terroir: Zotovich Family Vineyard is recognized for its sandy, mineral-rich soils and ideal cool-climate conditions.
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Exceptional winemaking pedigree: Ryan Deovlet has been named to Wine and Spirits Top 100 Wineries multiple times for his precise, site-driven wines.
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Vibrant and layered: Aromatics of red berries, floral notes, and subtle spice lead to a palate that is both elegant and expressive.
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Ready now or age-worthy: The 2023 vintage is approachable today with structure to develop over the next 7 to 10 years.
How to Serve It
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Decant lightly for 20 to 30 minutes to open the aromatics.
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Serve at 58 to 62 degrees Fahrenheit in Burgundy stems for optimal expression.
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Pair with roasted duck, mushroom risotto, grilled salmon, herb-crusted pork, or delicate charcuterie to highlight its balance of fruit and savory complexity.
Critical Acclaim:
93 Points, Vinous Media:
The 2023 Pinot Noir Zotovich Family Vineyard has beautiful lift and gorgeously fragrant aromatics. Finessed and precise, it sizzles out of the glass with lavender, blood orange, salted red berries and rosewater. There's a lovely upright, polished structure to brace it all, translating with elegance and ease through the persistent finish.