By Optik
2023 Solomon Hills Vineyard Santa Maria Valley Pinot Noir

Vineyard and Terroir
There is a strong maritime influence at Solomon Hills Vineyard. A Pinot Noir crafted from Block 53's Clone 113, Block 2's Clone 5, and Block 3's Clone 667 and 777, with a direct line of sight to the Pacific Ocean. Often, by the time the fog finally clears, the wind has started, and consequently, clusters and berries are small, also attributed to sandy, extremely low-vigor soils. As a result, the wines tend to be dark and tannic. Solomon Hills is an extreme vineyard that produces more linear, structured wines.

Technical Details
Blend: 100% Pinot Noir
Yield: 2.00 tons per acre
Aging: 14 months in 30% new French oak
Winemaker: Joey Tensely
Alcohol: 14.50%
pH: 3.81
TA: 5.50 g/L

Tasting Notes
Brambly red fruit leads the way, layered with delicate rose petal that brings brightness and elegance. Earthy notes of forest floor weave through the bouquet, adding depth and intrigue. A subtle thread of brown spice warms the profile, rounding out the freshness and complexity for a lifted yet grounded aromatic experience. Silky tannins glide across the palate with a refined, graceful structure. Vibrant red cherry is lifted by delicate undertones of smoke and warm spice, adding depth and sophistication. The finish lingers with poise, showcasing both finesse and complexity.
[Information provided by Matador Vino]

Wine: Optik 2023 Solomon Hills Vineyard Pinot Noir (Santa Maria Valley)
Score/Rating: 95
Review Date: 10/01/2026
Reviewed By: Matt Kettmann
Tasting Notes: This is a rather complex bottling, starting on the nose with aromas of dried cherry, cranberry and peppercorn-crusted grilled meat. The palate is more broad with red plum and brighter cherry flavors, yet the sagebrush and game elements elevate the sip into something special.

Wine: Optik Pinot Noir Santa Maria Valley Solomon Hills Vineyard 2023
Score/Rating: 94
Review Date: 09/24/2025
Reviewed By: James Suckling
Tasting Notes: Aromas of rose hips, mountain scrub and juniper layer vibrant, concentrated flavors of bergamot-spiced cherries and cherry blossoms, blood oranges, hibiscus, pomegranate and chaparral. Dusty tannins and a mineral spine add savoriness throughout this impressive Pinot. Drink or hold.

Wine: Optik Pinot Noir Santa Maria Valley Solomon Hills Vineyard 2023
Score/Rating: 88
Suggested Drinking Window: Drink now through 2028
Review Date: 06/29/2026
Reviewed By: James Molesworth
Tasting Notes: Blood orange and raspberry notes are laced with flashes of red tea and tomato leaf, with a minerally ping on the trim, unadorned finish. Drink now through 2028.