2018 Paul Lato Pinot Noir Atticus John Sebastiano Vineyard

Brought up in 65% new barrels (for 15 months), the 2018 Pinot Noir Atticus John Sebastiano Vineyard is a slightly deeper hued release and gives up lots of black raspberry and spiced strawberry fruit as well as subtle background oak, plenty of spice, orange, and incense notes, medium to full body, and bright yet integrated acidity. It's another wine that's going to benefit from another year in bottle and shine for 7-8 years or more. A great California success story, Polish immigrant Paul Lato started as a cellar hand in a Santa Maria co-op/custom crush and has worked his way up to being one of the leading producers of artisanal, world class wines in California today. Lato fashions a bevy of wines (I would normally say too many, yet given the quality he’s able to achieve, the more the merrier) including Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Syrah. These aren’t lightweight wines, yet they never lose their sense of balance and elegance. I always describe the wines as having a slightly Old World style, but with one foot planted firmly in California. As I hope the reviews show, his 2018s are incredible wines across the board.