2021 Storm Wines Pinot Noir Santa Barbara County 750 ml

In a just world, Ernst Storm would already be a star.

In time, we’re confident he will be. He’s just that good. It’s already been 16 years since he launched Storm Wines, so it’s puzzling that he is not better known. He’s one of Santa Barbara County's most quietly brilliant winemakers, rendering absolutely A+ sites into refined, balanced, totally Burgundian wines with beautiful fruit and thrust.

A native of South Africa, Storm studied at Elsenburg Agricultural School outside of Stellenbosch. His brother Hannes operates a winery called Storm Wines-South Africa, specializing in Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. But after Ernst completed his studies, he interned in California’s Sierra Foothills. Then he settled in Santa Barbara County, which he believes has a lot in common with his homeland in the Western Cape.

His 2021 Santa Barbara County Pinot Noir is impeccably made, and comes from absolutely dynamite vineyards: 48% Fiddlestix, 24% Donnachadh, 18% Presqu'ile, and 10% Wild King. After vinification with 8% whole clusters and aging in only 8% new French oak barriques, the quality of those sources show through brilliantly in the finished wine. We love its aromas of crushed Hood strawberries, cranberry, and baking spices, and how the medium-bodied palate displays tons of polish and nobility.

“Ernst Storm has crafted a wine that is delicate, distinct, and lovely all at once,” says Director of Service Sean McGinness of San Diego’s MICHELIN three-star destination Addison. He pairs it with Chef William Bradley’s roasted sweetbreads with caramelized cauliflower, gem lettuce, and black truffles—but it will shine at home as well, whether with a perfectly seared piece of salmon or on its own.