Beverage of the Week (BOW)
Exprimere Mia Pinot Noir Santa Rita Hills 2023
Product Story
This is our third vintage of Exprimere Pinot Noirs. Like the previous vintages, the two Pinot Noirs, Mia and Persey, were created as siblings exploring the question of nature and nurture. The fruit is sourced from the Peake Ranch vineyard in the Santa Rita Hills of Santa Barbara County — a proven top-tier Pinot Noir AVA. The difference lies solely in the winemaking choices. Mia, featured here, is treated very gently, being fermented at a cool temperature, cap pushed down softly, and rested in neutral barrels sur lie. Its sibling, Persey, is treated in a rough-and-tumble manner, fermented hot, and punched down more frequently. The barrels are rolled out into the sun to heat up and then regularly stirred. The wines are created by the trio of John Dimos, proprietor; Michael Anderson, viticulturist; and James MacPhail, winemaker (Tongue Dancer Wines). The 2023 vintage saw ideal conditions until the end of the growing season, as a sudden heat spike caused a scramble. Despite the challenge, the ’23 Mia is wonderfully balanced, subtle, and complex.
Brand Story
Exprimere is an emerging winery located in the Santa Rita Hills of Santa Barbara County. Describing it as a “micro-winery” might be an exaggeration of its size. Only 200 cases were produced for their inaugural commercial release in early 2023. The third vintage, their “twin” Pinots, is set to be released in June 2025, indicating an upward trajectory. This project is spearheaded by John Dimos, a molecular biologist who has previously contributed to life-saving therapeutics. After years in the lab, John transitioned to an entrepreneurial role, providing support for biotech, medicine, healthcare, and agriculture startups. Unsurprisingly, he developed a passion for wine and went on to earn a Certificate in Winemaking from UC Davis. Although new to winemaking, John wisely assembled an all-star team, including veteran viticulturist Michael Anderson and renowned winemaker James MacPhail (of Tongue Dancer Wines). Exprimere plans to eventually add other varietals to its offerings while continuing the concept of creating two wines from the same vineyard source using different winemaking techniques.
Tasting Note
Brilliant, medium garnet color. The nose is moderately intense, offering scents of boysenberry, strawberry, and dried herbs with supporting notes of slate, five spice, kumquat, and hibiscus flower. The palate confirms the nose delivering a red fruit-driven core with flavors of red cherry, cranberry, red plum, and oak. The finish is long and lingering with chewy tannins. Medium to full-bodied and perfectly balanced with an opulent texture.
How to Serve
Pair with bistro-style roasted chicken, roasted pork tenderloin with sauteed apples and a red currant sauce, or roasted mushroom risotto.
Price: $ 96
BevX Review: http://bevx.com/wine-detail/?id=4501
