Dierberg’s Drum Canyon Vineyard high in the Sta. Rita Hills AVA

Dierberg Vineyards, based Santa Barbara County, produces Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Syrah from their estate vineyards in the Santa Maria Valley, Sta. Rita Hills and Happy Canyon AVAs. At World of Pinot Noir earlier this month, I sat down with Tyler Thomas to catch up and taste through these delightful Dierberg Pinot Noir and Chardonnay releases.

2014 Dierberg Chardonnay Dierberg Vineyard, Santa Maria Valley 92 13.8% 750ml $32

Winemaker Tyler Thomas picks based on flavors and balance, not brix. And the Dierberg Vineyard’s very cool-climate, long-season location in the Santa Maria Valley AVA allows full flavor ripeness with a fresh palate and moderate alcohol. This is a sophisticated wine with aromas and flavors of yellow apple, yellow apple skin, baking spice and lemon. It’s precise and juicy on the palate with body that’s a generous medium. Fine-grained texture adds interest. The lengthy, mouth-watering finish emphasizes lemon and crisp apple. 2,960 cases produced.

2014 Dierberg Pinot Noir Dierberg Vineyard, Santa Maria Valley 94 13.7% 750ml $44

This beguiling Pinot Noir is true to the Santa Maria Valley AVA, which is known for dark red fruit and savoriness. The  aromas and flavors here are of smoky, dark red cherries, dried flowers and black raspberry accented by caramel and baking spice from French oak barrels (20% new). The palate is rich on the attack, but tension builds into the long, savory finish. Medium-plus body with very fine, moderate texture. Enjoy now through 2025. 2,240 cases produced.

2014 Dierberg Pinot Noir Drum Canyon Vineyard, Sta. Rita Hills 92 13.2% 750ml $52

From the northeastern part of the AVA, this Pinot Noir shows its youth and ripeness with fuchsia-tinged ruby color and flavors of luscious, ripe red cherry. Secondary aromas and flavors include caramel, cinnamon, allspice and a hint of herb. The palate is quite rich in fruit, nearly full-bodied, with fine-grained tannins and great balance. Give it a year, then drink through 2023. 839 cases produced.

Come back tomorrow for a longer profile on Dierberg and it’s sister winery, Star Lane.

Copyright Fred Swan 2017. Photo courtesy of Dierberg Vineyards. All rights reserved.