2017 Martellotto "Le Bon Temps Roule" Pinot Noir Sta. Rita Hills Central Coast

Loosely translated from Cajun French, the name of Greg Martellotto’s latest Pinot phenom means “Let the Good Times Roll.” It’s an appropriate phrase; this elegant limited-production expression of some of California’s most sought-after Pinot grapes brings joy the size of a boulder, at a price that won’t crush a wine lover’s wallet. Sensual notes of oak, lavender, and raspberry seamlessly transition from the nose to the palate, where they’re accompanied by a voluptuous structure and sublime balance.

The 2017 vintage is sourced from the exciting new project at Spear Vineyard in Sta. Rita Hills. Located just over a hill from the Seasmoke vineyard and south of Highway 246, these are some very lovingly and organically farmed vines. 

This 2017 Martellotto "Le Bon Temps Roule" Pinot Noir from Sta. Rita Hills Central Coast is aged in 100% French oak, 10% new. It was bottled after 11 months to maintain freshness and vivacity. Like all great Pinots, this wine is a bit of a seductress. It allures with notes of spice, light cedar, and bright raspberry. Slowly, it reveals itself with aeration. If you love cinnamon, this wine will be your best friend.  This will be a very intriguing wine in 5-10 years, but given the 450 case production, it will not be around that long.

On October 28, 2021, Forbes declared Santa Barbara County to be The Most Exciting Wine Destination in the US. On the very same day, acclaimed critic Antonio Galloni said Santa Barbara remains very much undiscovered by the broader population. He added that Santa Barbara wines are significantly undervalued relative to global peers. It's a very exciting time for this region that's on the verge of a global breakthrough. Stay tuned.