WS94: Shows nicely coiled energy, with a core of black cherry, mulberry and plum fruit allied to racy acidity, which carries through on the iris- and anise-tinged finish. A subtle, smoldering earth accent hangs in the background, leaving a flinty echo.

VM92: The 2021 Pinot Noir Sta. Rita Hills Cuvée is dense, plush and explosive. The purity of the flavors is just remarkable. Bright red cherry/plum fruit, spice, cedar, new leather and spice infuse the 2021 with tons of nuance. This is a fabulous appellation-level wine.

Racines is a collaboration between two classic houses and vignerons from France – Étienne de Montille of Burgundy and Rodolphe Péters of Champagne. They came together to join their experiences in hand-crafting wines of purity and transparency to create a range of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from the cool climate of the Sta. Rita Hills in California. The wines are elegant and terroir-driven. The Sta. Rita Hills Cuvée shows a purity of flavor that is just remarkable. Bright red cherry/plum fruit, spice, cedar, new leather, and spice. Tons of nuance.