Wines Not Specified Etude - fiddlestix - 2020

Viniou Reviews

Etude’s Fiddlestix Cuvée 2020 is a striking example of Californian Pinot Noir, crafted with meticulous attention to expressing terroir. The wine is composed predominantly of Pinot Noir grapes sourced from the renowned Fiddlestix Vineyard, nestled in the celebrated Santa Rita Hills within California’s cool-climate AVAs. The 2020 vintage benefitted from a relatively long, moderate growing season, encouraging slow ripening and optimal phenolic development in the grapes. Winemaking at Etude is marked by a commitment to gentle handling of fruit, including careful cluster selection, minimal intervention, and aging in French oak barrels, which enhances the varietal character while conferring structure and complexity.

The region behind this wine, the Santa Rita Hills in California’s Central Coast, is noted for its unique east-west orientation—a rarity in California. This formation creates a corridor where chilly Pacific Ocean breezes and fog sweep inland, significantly moderating temperatures and extending the growing season. The soils are a mix of marine sediment, sandy loam, and clay, with good drainage and low fertility, encouraging deep-rooted vines and resulting in grapes with vibrant acidity and nuanced flavor profiles. This terroir has helped the area build a reputation as one of the finest New World sources for Pinot Noir, delivering wines with aromatic complexity, minerality, and expressive red fruit.

For food pairings, Etude’s Fiddlestix Cuvée 2020 beautifully complements dishes that highlight the finesse of Pinot Noir. Think grilled duck breast with a cherry reduction, roast chicken with Provençal herbs, or even grilled salmon. The wine’s acidity and subtle oak spice also allow it to shine alongside mushroom risotto or a classic Californian BBQ pork. For a regional touch, serve it with a Santa Maria-style tri-tip or local goat cheese.

To fully capture the wine’s fresh red fruit aromas and elegant texture, serve it slightly cool, ideally at 15-16°C. Decanting for 30 minutes will help the bouquet blossom and integrate the oak notes, ensuring a harmonious and memorable tasting experience.