Sea Smoke Pinot Noir Southing 2023

WE97

Sea Smoke Pinot Noir Southing 2023 is a commanding, luxurious expression of Sta. Rita Hills terroir. Sourced from the estate’s south-facing hillside blocks, “Southing” is the most structured and powerful cuvée in the Sea Smoke portfolio—crafted for collectors who seek intensity, depth, and age-worthy refinement.

Tasting Profile

The 2023 Southing opens with opulent aromas of black cherry, ripe plum, crushed raspberry, and exotic spice. Layers of violet, forest floor, dark cocoa, and subtle graphite emerge with air. On the palate, the wine is rich and sculpted, revealing concentrated dark fruit, clove, and hints of toasted oak framed by firm yet polished tannins. Vibrant coastal acidity carries the wine through a long, seamless, and profoundly elegant finish.

Terroir & Craftsmanship

Grown on steep, south-facing slopes in the cool-climate Sta. Rita Hills AVA, Southing benefits from extended sun exposure balanced by Pacific Ocean breezes. The result is exceptional ripeness without sacrificing freshness. Meticulous small-lot fermentation and élevage in fine French oak enhance structure and complexity while preserving purity of fruit.

Cellaring Potential

Built for longevity, Sea Smoke Southing 2023 will reward patience over the next 8–15+ years, developing additional layers of earth, spice, and savory nuance with time.

Food Pairing

Ideal with dry-aged ribeye, herb-crusted lamb, duck confit, truffle-infused dishes, and aged hard cheeses.

Sea Smoke Pinot Noir Southing 2023 represents the pinnacle of power and polish in California Pinot Noir—an investment-worthy bottle for serious collectors and luxury wine enthusiasts.

Sea Smoke Pinot Noir Southing 2023 is a commanding, luxurious expression of Sta. Rita Hills terroir. Sourced from the estate’s south-facing hillside blocks, “Southing” is the most structured and powerful cuvée in the Sea Smoke portfolio—crafted for collectors who seek intensity, depth, and age-worthy refinement.

Tasting Profile

The 2023 Southing opens with opulent aromas of black cherry, ripe plum, crushed raspberry, and exotic spice. Layers of violet, forest floor, dark cocoa, and subtle graphite emerge with air. On the palate, the wine is rich and sculpted, revealing concentrated dark fruit, clove, and hints of toasted oak framed by firm yet polished tannins. Vibrant coastal acidity carries the wine through a long, seamless, and profoundly elegant finish.

Terroir & Craftsmanship

Grown on steep, south-facing slopes in the cool-climate Sta. Rita Hills AVA, Southing benefits from extended sun exposure balanced by Pacific Ocean breezes. The result is exceptional ripeness without sacrificing freshness. Meticulous small-lot fermentation and élevage in fine French oak enhance structure and complexity while preserving purity of fruit.

Cellaring Potential

Built for longevity, Sea Smoke Southing 2023 will reward patience over the next 8–15+ years, developing additional layers of earth, spice, and savory nuance with time.

Food Pairing

Ideal with dry-aged ribeye, herb-crusted lamb, duck confit, truffle-infused dishes, and aged hard cheeses.

Sea Smoke Pinot Noir Southing 2023 represents the pinnacle of power and polish in California Pinot Noir—an investment-worthy bottle for serious collectors and luxury wine enthusiasts.

Ratings

WE97
Wine Enthusiast

"There are expert levels of integration going on throughout this bottling, starting with the subtle yet persistent aromas of raspberry, cranberry, potpourri and light sagebrush that continually draw in the nose. The palate's firm texture elevates the cherry compote, citrus rind and strawberry cream flavors, with a lingering sense of violet painting the corners. This will be exciting to watch for years. Drink now-2040."

Product Detail

Size 750 mL
Producer Sea Smoke Wine
Dominant Varietal Pinot Noir
Vintage 2023
Country United States
Region California
Sub Region Central Coast
Sub Sub Region Santa Rita Hills
Alcohol Percentage 14.5