Wines Sta. Rita Hills (formerly Santa Rita Hills) Etude - fiddlestix - 2017

Viniou Reviews

Etude’s Fiddlestix Cuvée 2017 from the Sta. Rita Hills AVA is a quintessential expression of California Pinot Noir. This single-vineyard red is crafted from meticulously selected Pinot Noir grapes grown at the Fiddlestix Vineyard, one of the most acclaimed sites in the region. The 2017 vintage benefited from a moderately cool growing season, allowing the fruit to ripen slowly and evenly, resulting in complex aromatics and balanced acidity. In the cellar, this wine saw gentle extraction and aging in French oak barrels, lending structure and layers of spice without overpowering the vibrant fruit. Expect notes of wild strawberry, raspberry, and black cherry framed by undertones of rose petal, earthy forest floor, and a hint of baking spice.

Sta. Rita Hills sits within Santa Barbara County on California’s Central Coast, facing a unique east-west orientation that funnels fog and ocean breezes from the Pacific. This maritime influence tempers the sun’s warmth, critical for preserving the delicate balance in Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The soils here are diverse, dominated by sandy loam and diatomaceous earth, offering excellent drainage and contributing minerality to the wines. Established as an AVA in 2001, Sta. Rita Hills rapidly gained a reputation for producing some of California’s most elegant and nuanced Pinot Noirs, propelled by winemakers focused on terroir-driven expressions and sustainable viticulture.

Etude’s Fiddlestix Cuvée is an ideal partner to dishes that echo its refined structure and bright acidity. Think roasted duck breast with cherry compote, herb-crusted pork loin, or wild mushroom risotto. For a Californian twist, grilled salmon with a pomegranate glaze also matches beautifully. Regionally inspired pairings such as tri-tip steak or Santa Maria-style barbecue deliver a satisfying harmony with the wine’s earthy and spicy notes.

Serve this Pinot Noir slightly chilled, at 15-16°C, to showcase its lively fruit, floral accents, and silky tannins. Decanting for 30 minutes can help the wine open up fully, offering a more layered and seamless tasting experience.