Atticus John Sebestiano Pinot Noir
⏳ Drinking Window
2024 - 2030
🍽️ Food & Wine Pairings
Roasted duck, wild mushroom risotto, herb-crusted rack of lamb
✨ Technical Specifications
Crafted by artisanal winemaker Paul Lato, the 'Atticus' Pinot Noir is a stunning expression of the John Sebastiano Vineyard, situated on the eastern edge of the cool-climate Sta. Rita Hills AVA. This dramatic vineyard features steep, wind-swept clay-loam slopes that force the vines to struggle, resulting in low yields of highly concentrated fruit. Lato's approach of minimal intervention and precise barrel aging allows the unique maritime terroir to shine. The wine is renowned for its seductive texture, vibrant acidity, and a complex profile of dark cherries, exotic spices, and earthy undertones, reflecting Lato's background as a sommelier seeking ultimate balance and elegance.
🍾 About the Producer
Established in 2002 by Polish-born former Toronto sommelier Paul Lato, this boutique Central Coast winery emerged after early mentorship from Au Bon Climat's Jim Clendenen and encouragement from Bien Nacido's Bob Miller. Operating without estate acreage, Lato contracts premier, meticulously farmed plots across premier maritime-influenced cool-climate terroirs, spanning the Santa Maria Valley, Sta. Rita Hills, Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Lucia Highlands, and Los Carneros. The viticultural philosophy focuses on rigorous yield restriction, physiological maturity, and sustainable management tailored block by block. In the cellar, Lato applies an intuitive, non-interventionist approach with small-lot fermentations, ambient yeast, and sensitive French oak aging to deliver exceptional textural tension, purity, and culinary balance. Celebrated white cuvées—including the Hyde Vineyard Goldberg Variations Chardonnay, Sierra Madre Kokoro Chardonnay, Le Bon Vivant, and O Sole Mio Sauvignon Blanc—stand alongside benchmark Pinot Noir and Syrah as some of California's most critically acclaimed, authentic, and seamless single-vineyard expressions.
🍇 Grapes
Pinot Noir