Wines Not Specified Etude - Fiddlestix Vineyard Forté - 2019

Viniou Reviews

The Etude Fiddlestix Vineyard Forté 2019 is a dry red wine from California, crafted by the renowned Etude winery. This cuvée, sourced from the distinguished Fiddlestix Vineyard in the Santa Rita Hills AVA, predominantly features Pinot Noir, though the exact blend may include small percentages of other varietals typical to the region. The 2019 vintage benefited from a classic Californian growing season, with cool evenings and foggy mornings followed by sunny afternoons, allowing for optimal ripening and concentration of flavors. The winemaking process at Etude emphasizes minimal intervention and gentle handling: the grapes are harvested by hand, undergo fermentation with indigenous yeasts, and are aged in French oak barrels. This results in a wine marked by its elegance, depth of fruit, and refined tannic structure. In the glass, expect aromas of ripe cherry, wild strawberry, violets, subtle earth, and spice, complemented by hints of vanilla and a delicate mineral undertone.

The Santa Rita Hills AVA, nestled within California’s Central Coast, is celebrated for its cool maritime climate. The proximity to the Pacific Ocean means coastal fog and persistent breezes, which slow grape maturation and preserve acidity. The soils here are predominantly marine sedimentary with patches of clay and calcareous rock, contributing to the complex minerality found in wines like the Fiddlestix cuvée. This region has a relatively recent yet illustrious wine history, having gained notoriety in the late 20th century for producing world-class Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, and it remains a benchmark area for expressive, site-driven wines.

For food pairings, the Etude Fiddlestix Vineyard Forté 2019’s finesse and vibrant acidity make it supremely versatile at the table. Consider serving it with roast duck, grilled salmon, or herb-crusted lamb chops. Mushroom risotto, truffle pasta, or dishes featuring wild game also complement the wine’s earthy complexity. To honor its Californian heritage, you might pair it with Santa Maria-style barbecue or grilled vegetables with local goat cheese.

For an optimal tasting experience, serve this wine slightly chilled, at 14-16°C. This will highlight its aromatics, finesse, and balanced structure. Decanting for 30-60 minutes before tasting can also help the wine express its subtle, layered profile more fully.