Alma Rosa "Barrel Select" 2016 Sta. Rita Hills - California

VinoUS Media Review

Rated Points 94
The 2016 Pinot Noir Barrel Select is bright and punchy, with terrific presence and energy. Perfumed floral notes, red berry fruit and silky tannins give this expressive Pinot Noir much of its allure. The Barrel Select captures the intensity and radiance that are such signatures of the Sta. Rita Hills, and yet it also retains an element of translucence that is incredibly appealing. The conventional choice with barrel select wines is to emphasize power and concentration. It's nice to see winemaker Nick DeLuca go beyond that tired formula. (Antonio Gallon)


The Pinot Noir - Barrel Select is a blend of our favorite Pinot Noir barrels from the vintage. This vintage consists of equal parts Swann, 667, and 777 clones. It has a beautifully balanced, earthy nose of dusty bramble berries. Its complete flavors end with a ripe cherry note rounded out with excellent acidity.