Santa Cruz Mountain Vineyard 'Las Nietas' Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir 2022

In Short

A bright, mid-weight Pinot Noir from the Santa Cruz Mountains with red cherry, earthy undertones, and a lean mineral spine.

Quick Facts

• Region: Santa Cruz Mountains, California
• Variety: Pinot Noir
• Style: Dry red, medium body
• Best For: Weeknight dinner, casual entertaining

Why We Stock It

Santa Cruz Mountain Vineyard sits in one of California's most distinctive and underrated regions, where cool coastal influence produces Pinot Noir with real structure and clarity rather than jammy ripeness. This wine represents the area well at a fair price for the quality and region you are getting.

Tasting Profile

The wine shows the lean, mineral character the Santa Cruz Mountains are known for.

• Aroma: Red cherry, dried herb, forest floor
• Palate: Tart red fruit, subtle earthiness, light spice
• Structure & Finish: Fine tannins, bright acidity, moderate length

Winemaking

The wine is made in the regional style with cool-climate fermentation practices that preserve acidity and aromatics. Oak is used but does not dominate.

Serving & Pairing

Serve between 52 and 58 degrees Fahrenheit without decanting. The wine pairs equally well with roasted chicken and mushroom risotto as with a simple grilled hamburger. Its acidity and lean frame make it flexible with food and prevent it from feeling heavy.

The Estate

Santa Cruz Mountain Vineyard is a grower and producer based in the mountains south of San Jose. They work with fruit from established vineyard sites in the region, focusing on cool-climate varieties.

Terroir

The Santa Cruz Mountains sit in a unique pocket where proximity to the Pacific keeps daytime temperatures moderate and nights cool, slowing ripening and building acidity in the fruit. The soils are varied volcanic and granitic material. These conditions produce Pinot Noir with clarity and mineral character distinct from warmer California regions.