Has there been another producer of Pinot Noir in California that has caused as much buzz among Pinot enthusiasts? The emphasis here is on meticulous management of the vineyards using a combination of cutting-edge technology and a highly skilled vineyard team. The original winemaker was Kris Curran, who also produces Rhone varietals and Sangiovese under her namesake label in Lompoc (she has left for Foley Estates and has been replaced by Don Schroeder formerly of Ampelos Cellars). Owner Bob Davids began the development of Sea Smoke Vineyard in 1999 on the south-facing hillsides of the estate situated above Fiddlestix Vineyard. 10 clones are planted in multiple blocks on the 100-acre estate vineyard (detailed on the website). The first vintage was 2001 and production is now up to 3,000 cases per year.

There are three estate bottlings: Southing, Botella and Ten. A Chardonnay is given away to faithful mailing list members. The Sea Smoke lineup of Pinot Noirs are a hot ticket and sold primarily through the mailing list. Allocations are tight and there is a waiting list to get on the mailing list. No tasting. Some fruit is sold to selected producers in the region (Foxen, Hitching Post). 805-737-1620.