Samra Morris’ 2023 Pinot Noir Is Alma Rosa at Its Peak
A dark, mysterious Sta. Rita Hills Pinot that may stand as the winery’s defining vintage—and a personal masterpiece for its winemaker.
Samra Morris has crafted my favorite vintage of the Alma Rosa Sta. Rita Hills Pinot Noir.
The Alma Rosa Sta. Rita Hills 2023 ($50) is dark, mysterious, on the border of full bodied and a masterpiece which is an absolute treat to unravel. Aromas of smoky cherry, cranberry and Herbes de Provence. Maraschino cherry peeks above the spice and cigar box flavors. A long, enticing finish with blood orange, white pepper and sweet pipe tobacco carry on as the mystery deepens while they dance with dark-fruit flavors.
It’s absolutely stunning, a Magnus opus to the Alma Rosa collection of vineyards off Santa Rosa Rd. She’s always walked the fine line with Pinot Noir and its mercurial ways and has never done it better than in 2023; even if she had to battle frayed nerves when it came to bringing in fruit.
“It’s such a sensitive, fragile variety,” Morris said. “There’s that little window where your stomach is upside down; am I doing the right thing?”
