Bill Wathen and Dick Dore have been making wine together since 1985, when they founded Foxen Vineyards and Winery at the historic Rancho Tinaquaic in Northern Santa Barbara County. Since that time their dedication has remained the same: the creation of small production, sustainably-farmed, vineyard-focused wines using a straightforward and minimalist approach to winemaking. They seem to be doing all the things right, as they now have an amazing following, and their tasting room has become a Santa Barbara Wine Country destination!
Santa Maria is a highly-prized growing region within Santa Barbara County. Foxen sources Pinot Noir from two of the more noteworthy vineyards in this area; Bien Nacido and Riverbench. Multiple clones of Pinot Noir are harvested from these two properties, fermented separately, then blended for increased complexity while being aged in French oak barrels.
ANTONIO GALLONI 91 POINTS - "The 2023 Pinot Noir (Santa Maria Valley) is a blend from Bien Nacido, Riverbench and Solomon Hills. Bright, vibrant and high-tones, the 2023 leans hard into its savory underpinnings and upright structure. Tarragon, truffle, tobacco and fresh watermelon create a distinctive profile that still feels very much like a Santa Maria Valley wine."
Santa Maria is a highly-prized growing region within Santa Barbara County. Foxen sources Pinot Noir from two of the more noteworthy vineyards in this area; Bien Nacido and Riverbench. Multiple clones of Pinot Noir are harvested from these two properties, fermented separately, then blended for increased complexity while being aged in French oak barrels.
ANTONIO GALLONI 91 POINTS - "The 2023 Pinot Noir (Santa Maria Valley) is a blend from Bien Nacido, Riverbench and Solomon Hills. Bright, vibrant and high-tones, the 2023 leans hard into its savory underpinnings and upright structure. Tarragon, truffle, tobacco and fresh watermelon create a distinctive profile that still feels very much like a Santa Maria Valley wine."
