Beverage of the Week (BOW)

Lucas & Lewellen Rosé of Pinot Noir Santa Barbara County 2014

Product Story

Made with 100% Pinot Noir grown in four different vineyard locations in both the Santa Maria Valley (3) and the Los Alamos Valley. These are vineyards that are well suited for growing Pinot Noir. This wine also features four different clones of Pinot Noir, two are clones long used in California and two are recent imports from Burgundy. This terrific rosé has the heart of great French rosé that feature vibrant fruit with a great dose of refreshing acidity and crisp mineral notes. Fewer than 600 cases of this wine were made.

Brand Story

Louis Lucas, a third generation grape grower, selects choice lots from his vineyards that are then crafted by winemaker Megan McGrath Gates. It is clear from sampling several of the Lucas & Lewellen wines that Megan is an extraordinarily talented winemaker with a keen sense of flavor, proportion, and balance. The vineyards of Lucas & Lewellen are located in the three high-profile regions of Sanat Barbara County: Santa Maria Valley, Los Alamos, and the Santa Ynez Valley. Lucas & Lewellen is a winery that has just recently come on my radar and will eagerly wait to sample future releases.

Tasting Note

Brilliant salmon color with hints of ruby. The nose is quite floral with waves of fresh, ripe berries and a hint of mineral and citrus zest. The palate confirms the nose delivering a lush, fruit-driven core with flavors of raspberry, strawberry, semi-tart red cherry, and plum with accents of mineral, citrus, and cranberry. It's perfectly balanced with a ripe, full center and vibrant acidty.

How to Serve

This wine needs nothing more than a glass but it’s great with smoked salmon or shrimp cocktail.

Price: $ 18

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