2021 Optik "Solomon Hills Vineyard" Santa Maria Valley Pinot Noir

The 2021 Pinot Noir Solomon Hills Vineyard is a gorgeous wine off this site. Succulent dark cherry, plum, mocha, licorice and rose petal all grace this racy, extroverted Pinot Noir. There is a bit of new oak in the 2021, but it works well. This is a terrific expression of Solomon Hills. The 30% stems are not especially evident. (AG)

Alongside the ridiculous price we have on Optik's Bien Nacido Chardonnay, we also have this almost uncomprehendible deal on Solomon Hills Pinot Noir for under $20! Solomon Hills is the sister vineyard to Bien Nacido, also owned and farmed by the Miller family. Solomon Hills is situated in the very western portion of Santa Maria Valley, close to the 101 HWY. The vines here grow in ancient sand dunes and are constantly buffeted by ocean breezes. Fruit from this renowned vineyard typically commands top dollar with wines from the likes of Paul Lato, Ojai, Foxen, Daou and others selling for $60-$120. The Solomon Hills Estate wines produced by the Miller Family themselves currently sell at $75 a bottle. Optik is a collaborative project where famed winemaker Joey Tensley, works with Solomon Hills fruit to craft his own expression of his distinctive site. If you know the Tensley wines you'll likely deduce that this is a more fruit-forward, opulent style than you might typically see from this ultra cool climate location. Joey uses his skills to full effect here coaxing a downright exotic, expressive, silky Pinot Noir from the excellent 2021 growing season. His bold interpretation of the fruit juxtaposes the vineyard's traditionally more savory qualities with bold, deep red fruits and Asian spice. Dark cherry meets seared strawberry, and crushed forest berries. A lush, silky mid-palate is punctuated with amaro like alpine herbs and pomegranate liquor. Great length on the palate with deep berry fruits running long into the finish with dried flowers, warming spices and suave oak tones. It all works beautifully together for a out and out crowd pleasing wine. With huge press from top critics and a very affordable Insider's Advantage price, this one is set to fly off our shelves in a hurry!