Birichino 'Saint Georges' Pinot Noir, Santa Cruz Mountains, California 2024Birichino, founded by Alex Krause and John Locke in 2008, focuses on crafting wines with character and poise. The Saint Georges vineyard is located on the eastern edge of the Santa Cruz Mountains, producing wines with a distinctive sense of place thanks to its cool climate and rocky soils. Winemaker: Alex Krause and John Locke Farming: Sustainable farming practices Variety: 100% Pinot Noir Terroir: Primarily sourced from the Saint Georges vineyard,

James Suckling (2024 vintage) 91 pts

where he was exposed to large-scale grape farming

2000 feet in elevation

with occasional protein crystals that signal long aging and complexity

This vineyard is characterized by its windswept terrain and cooler microclimate

Crusty bread

The rose hues come from the grapes skins themselves

WINEMAKER: Pierre Meurgey

planted on volcanic and loamy soils with excellent drainage and sun exposure

or grilled mackerel with daikon oroshi

Tempranillo

with a soft but firm texture