Foxen 'Block 8 - Bien Nacido Vineyard' Santa Maria Valley Pinot Noir 2021

Winemaking

Foxen's winemaking philosophy centers on sourcing distinctive fruit from Santa Maria Valley's finest vineyards and allowing the terroir to express itself with minimal intervention. The team respects the natural character of cool-climate Pinot Noir, crafting wines that balance elegance with complexity rather than extracting maximum richness.

Tasting Notes

This Block 8 bottling opens with refined aromas of red cherry and strawberry, touched lightly by oak influence that frames rather than dominates the fruit. On the palate, silky tannins and bright acidity create a graceful structure, with red fruit flavors moving into earthy undertones and a whisper of spice on the mid-palate. The finish is clean and persistent, leaving behind lingering notes of red fruit and minerals that speak to the vineyard's character.

Producer

Foxen has built a reputation as a serious Santa Maria producer by focusing on single-vineyard and small-lot wines that showcase the region's potential for world-class Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The winery works closely with growers like Bien Nacido, one of Santa Maria Valley's most respected and historic vineyard properties, to craft wines that reflect specific blocks and vintage conditions.

Terroir

Santa Maria Valley's cool Pacific influence creates an ideal climate for Pinot Noir, with diurnal temperature swings that preserve acidity and complexity in the fruit. The valley's benchland soils, with their clay and limestone content, contribute mineral definition and natural structure to wines grown here, particularly from distinguished sites like the Bien Nacido Vineyard, which has been producing premium fruit for decades.

Food Pairings

Try this with pan-seared duck breast finished with a cherry gastrique, where the wine's silky tannins and red fruit won't overpower the delicate game meat. It's equally at home with roasted mushrooms and thyme-rubbed chicken, or on a more casual evening, with a charcuterie board featuring cured salami and aged Comté.