• ALTA MARIA 2011 PINOT NOIR SANTA MARIA VALLEY:

In 1966, after meeting the ardent, young Paul Wilkins when he was a member of the Vines to Wines Club at Cal Poly, I knew the viticulture student was headed to stardom. His finely-crafted wines prove it each year. It was an extremely cool season for West Coast wine regions. Yet this pinot noir is elegant and irresistible, from start to finish. It offers delicious aromas and flavors of dark black cherries and plums illuminated by bright, tangy notes of Bing cherries, strawberries, and spice. A beautifully balanced wine, it’s quite drinkable alone and a delightful companion to food. Pair it with ahi or salmon, rack of lamb, or a superb prime cut of beef. Available at the Los Olivos tasting room or at altamaria.com, only $28 retail for a wine that has earned great reviews.