Clos Tita

Dr David Estrada is a dentist by trade. Around 1990 he planted 700 Pinot Noir vines around his home in Scotts Valley. The vines are closely spaced and farmed in a sustainable manner with minimal intervention.

Clos Tita was bonded in 1997 and is named after his wife, Britta. The first release included two Pinot Noirs - an Estate and a "Cuvee" blend of estate and purchased fruit, as well as a Cabernet Sauvignon. Over the years these three wines have been the mainstay of production, though the Cabernet Sauvignon is now a blend called "Gironde". In addition the winery occasionally releases a Syrah or Syrah blend.

Clos Tita were pouring at Michael's On Main for the SCMWA Passport Event.

2005 Clos Tita Estate Pinot Noir, Santa Cruz Mountains
The Estate is aged for 2 years in new French oak. The nose shows earthy cherry and spicy, smoky oak. Full bodied, with rich, earthy fruit and a dry, earthy finish. Very young; needs 3-5 years cellar time. 90+ $36

2005 Clos Tita "Cuvee" Pinot Noir, Santa Cruz Mountains
The Cuvee includes fruit from the Branciforte Ridge vineyard and sees less oak. While still earthy and smoky the nose shows much more cherry and less oak notes. There's nice, rich cherry and brambly fruit with some spice. Much more fruit-forward than the Estate, this is clearly one to drink while waiting for its sibling. 90 $30

2005 Clos Tita "Gironde", Santa Cruz Mountains
A 50/50 blend from two small vineyards; Cabernet Sauvignon from Saratoga and Merlot from Los Gatos. The nose is smoky with brambly notes. There's nice blackcurrant fruit and light oak. Reminds me of Mount Eden's Saratoga Cuvee. 89 $27

2003 Clos Tita "Sierra Azul", Santa Cruz Mountains
A blend of Syrah, Merlot and Viognier.
Light nose. On the palate the Syrah shows with black fruit and white pepper notes, and a dry finish. 86

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