Pinot Noir from the Carneros region ranks among the finest in California. Saintsbury has been making, growing and experimenting with Carneros Pinot for more than 25 years. To achieve the style of wine that delivers the varietal and regional integrity that Saintsbury's Carneros is known for they undertake a careful, methodical exercise in blending. In late winter, after all their lots have completed malolactic fermentation and have been resting in small French oak barrels, they begin the search for their “Carneros” bottling. In tasting through their barreled Pinot Noir they are above all looking for those lots that show a balance of tannin and acid, fruit flavors that while rich, dark-red and complex, are not overblown or leaning toward the burnt jam style of Pinot you sometimes see. Their Carneros bottling delivers distinctive Pinot Noir character in a wine of power, grace and elegance.