Racines is a unique collaboration that brings together some of France’s most respected winegrowers, uniting the expertise of Étienne de Montille and Brian Sieve from Burgundy with Rodolphe Péters of Champagne. Their shared vision is simple: to craft wines of purity, precision and transparency that express the unique character of place.
The project marks the first venture beyond France for both Étienne de Montille and Rodolphe Péters, combining the traditions and philosophies of Burgundy and Champagne with the exceptional vineyard potential of Sta. Rita Hills. Drawn by the region’s cool maritime climate and remarkable terroirs, the team focuses on producing elegant, site-driven expressions of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.
Racines represents a seamless fusion of Old World craftsmanship and New World opportunity. The resulting wines are defined by balance, finesse and a strong sense of origin, reinforcing Sta. Rita Hills' reputation as one of the world's premier regions for terroir-focused Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.
Racines Rinconada Vineyard Pinot Noir is a captivating and finely detailed Pinot Noir that showcases the elegance and precision of the cool-climate Sta. Rita Hills.
Beautifully aromatic, the wine opens with vibrant notes of blood orange, red cherry and wild berry fruit, layered with hints of mint, white pepper, chalk and delicate spice. The inclusion of 70% whole bunches adds complexity, lift and savoury nuance, integrating seamlessly with the wine’s naturally expressive character.
The palate is energetic and refined, balancing bright fruit purity with mineral tension and freshness. A thread of saline acidity runs through the wine, carrying remarkable focus and length into a dynamic, lingering finish.
Elegant yet intensely expressive, this Pinot Noir combines vibrancy, complexity and site transparency in equal measure, delivering a beautifully poised wine that continues to reveal new layers with time in the glass.
