Wine, etc.: Here are 10 pinot noirs to try from Sta. Rita Hills | COMMENTARY

We have always admired the pinot noirs from Santa Barbara County, California. But, as we have gratefully learned, there’s more to this region than “Santa Barbara.” The more than 280 wineriesare broken into seven American Viticultural Areas. They have unique terroirs and weather to distinguish them from their neighbors.

We like all of these pinot noirs, but we have a special place in our hearts for those from the relatively small Sta. Rita Hills. It was AVA designated in 2001 and oddly abbreviated...