2013 Hilliard Bruce Earth Pinot Noir Sta. Rita Hills 750 ml

A Maverick’s Burgundian-Stunner

When wunderkinds John Hilliard and Christine Bruce release their latest Sta. Rita Hills offering, Pinot lovers have every reason to rejoice. The Wine Advocate called the 2013 “Earth” Pinot Noir “brilliant, almost Burgundian-styled” then pinned on 92 points. The “Earth” cuvée is a prime example of why Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate has awarded Hilliard Bruce 11 ratings between 93-96 points in the last four vintages, praising the estate for its “bevy of brilliant wines,” which are all “beautifully made and show classy, distinctive characters.” At $29.99 — the lowest price in the nation — the 2013 “Earth” is a stunning value and resplendent Pinot that drinks well now and could benefit from some time in the cellar.

One of the crown jewels of Santa Barbara wine country, Hilliard Bruce’s sun-soaked, ocean-breeze-kissed estate vines are expertly tended by Greg Brewer (Melville, Brewer-Clifton). Brewer’s mastery helps explain why; the celebrated winemaker’s deft hands have crafted Melville and Brewer-Clifton from the vine to the bottle. Brewer is no stranger to critical acclaim, with his wines garnering more than 100 reviews between 93-97 points from The Wine Advocate, Wine Spectator, and Antonio Galloni’s Vinous for his Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noirs. Brewer continues to champion the region and his continuing influence as a consultant ensures Hilliard Bruce remains one of Santa Barbara’s premiere Pinot Noirs.  

Hilliard Bruce’s Sta. Rita Hills estate vineyards form the westernmost boundary of the appellation, and are heavily influenced by cool maritime Pacific wind and fog, which John Hilliard calls “sea smoke.” Temperatures rarely exceed 80 degrees, warm enough for sumptuous, dark-berried flavors to mature at an even pace during a long growing season, while extremely cool nights keep acids freshly in check. In other words, an ideal climate for top-quality, vivid Pinot Noir.