Nestled in the charming town of Los Olivos, the Story of Soil tasting room offers an intimate glimpse into the heart of Santa Barbara County’s diverse terroir. On a recent visit, I was welcomed into this cozy, inviting space, where each bottle of wine tells a unique story of the land from which it hails, guided by the passionate vision of winemaker Jessica Gasca.
The tasting commenced with the 2023 Gold Coast Vineyard Rosé of Pinot Noir from the Santa Maria Valley AVA. This region, with its cool, foggy mornings and sunny afternoons, offers an ideal climate for Pinot Noir. The rosé was a vibrant start, bursting with fresh strawberry and floral notes, encapsulating the refreshing crispness that the Santa Maria Valley is known for.
Next, we explored the 2023 Martian Ranch Vineyard Gamay Noir from the Alisos Canyon AVA. Alisos Canyon, a relatively new AVA, boasts a unique climate that blends coastal influences with warm inland temperatures. This Gamay Noir presented a lively tapestry of red fruit and spice, showcasing the dynamic growing conditions of the region.
Continuing with reds, the 2022 Gold Coast Vineyard Pinot Noir from Santa Maria Valley graced our glasses. Known for its sandy loam soils, Gold Coast Vineyard contributes to wines with remarkable minerality and depth. This Pinot Noir was no exception, offering layers of cherry, earth, and a hint of spice, a true representation of its origin.
The 2022 La Rinconada Vineyard Pinot Noir from Sta. Rita Hills followed. Sta. Rita Hills is renowned for its cool climate and unique east-west orientation, allowing for prolonged grape ripening. This Pinot Noir was elegant and complex, with aromas of dark berries and a hint of forest floor, capturing the essence of this exceptional AVA.
Our tasting concluded with the 2021 Larner Vineyard Syrah from Ballard Canyon AVA. Ballard Canyon is celebrated for producing some of the finest Syrahs, and this wine exemplified the region’s potential. With bold flavors of blackberry, pepper, and a touch of smokiness, it was a robust finale to our journey.
Story of Soil is more than a winery; it’s a testament to Jessica Gasca’s dedication to expressing the nuances of Santa Barbara County’s terroir. Her approach is meticulous, focusing on small-batch, single-vineyard wines that truly reflect their origins. Story of Soil is a must-visit for any wine enthusiast seeking an authentic and enriching experience.
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