Wines Sta. Rita Hills (formerly Santa Rita Hills) Etude - Pinot Noir Fiddlestix Vineyard - 2016

Viniou Reviews

The Etude Pinot Noir Fiddlestix Vineyard 2016 is a remarkable representation of California’s Sta. Rita Hills AVA, renowned for producing world-class Pinot Noir. Crafted exclusively from the Pinot Noir grape, this wine captures the essence of its singular vineyard source, the revered Fiddlestix site. The 2016 vintage benefited from a moderate growing season, allowing for nuanced ripening and a vibrant balance between ripe red fruit character and precise acidity. Vinification focused on gentle extraction to preserve the variety’s natural grace, followed by aging in French oak barrels—an approach that frames the fruit while contributing subtle spice and earthy undertones.

The Sta. Rita Hills AVA, formerly known as Santa Rita Hills, is situated within California’s larger Santa Ynez Valley. This coastal region experiences pronounced maritime influences: cool Pacific breezes and frequent fog roll inland, maintaining lower temperatures ideal for slow, even grape ripening. The soils here are unique—a tapestry of well-draining sandy loam and calcareous marine sediment that imparts minerality and finesse to the wines. Sta. Rita Hills established its reputation in the late 20th century, quickly becoming a benchmark for cool-climate Pinot Noir in California, with a focus on quality, site expression, and sustainable viticulture.

Pairing this refined Pinot Noir invites culinary creativity. The wine’s lively acidity and red fruit notes—cherry, cranberry, and wild strawberry—complement roasted duck breast with cherry gastrique, mushroom risotto, or grilled salmon. It also shines alongside California cuisine classics and traditional fare from the region, such as Santa Maria-style barbecued tri-tip, where the wine’s balance and subtle tannins echo the flavors without overwhelming. For a local touch, serve with goat cheese from a nearby creamery.

For optimal enjoyment, serve the Etude Fiddlestix Vineyard Pinot Noir 2016 at a temperature between 14-16°C. Decanting for 30 minutes helps open up the aromatics and bring out the wine’s layers of complexity. This Pinot Noir also offers good cellaring potential; enjoy it now or allow it to evolve over the next 5-7 years to reveal deeper earthy and savory dimensions.