Reviews and Scores

91 points

2013 Carr Pinot Noir Clone 114, Yard Vineyard, Sta. Rita Hills

 
Only two barrels produced of this unusual wine. Single clone 114 Pinot Noirs are rare. ·An impressive wine notable for the harmony between fruit, tannin, acidity and oak. It tasted of freshly picked Pinot Noir grapes.

91 points

2013 Carr Pinot Noir, Yard Vineyard, Sta. Rita Hills

 
Deep reddish purple color in the glass. Aromas of earth-kissed black cherry. Sumptuous flavors of black cherry and blackberry with a beefy streak underneath. Well-crafted with supportive tannins and a silky, fruit-laden finish.

91 points

2012 Carr Pinot Noir, Santa Barbara County

Downtown Santa Barbara-based Ryan Carr takes the best parts of the Sta. Rita Hills and Santa Maria Valleys for this county blend, which smells of spiced cranberry, wet slate and black spices. On the palate, it’s soft and elegant, with sassafras and cherry cola flavors. – Matt Kettman

 90 points

2013 Carr Sauvignon Blanc, Santa Ynez Valley

 
Rather than pungent green aromas, this bottling tends toward a sweeter aromatic profile, with limeade, mandarin orange and tangerine scents. On the palate, there is a slight creaminess and a nod toward bell pepper, but the tart, bitter and acidic elements of apple and lime pith combine memorably. – Matt Kettmann

92 points

2012 Carr Pinot Noir, Turner Vineyard, Sta. Rita Hills

 
Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Both earthy and fruity, this wine features mid to full-bodied dark red and black stone fruits that were picked at the peak of ripeness. The inviting mid palate attack is attention-grabbing, the tannins are firm but nicely tucked in, and the finish is very intense, long, and expansive. The oak contributes seasoning without being imposing. Thoroughly enjoyable.

90 points

2012 Carr Pinot Noir, Santa Barbara County

 
Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Fruit-dominated nose featuring black cherry and raspberry with a subtle oak note. Intensely flavored and fruit-driven, with plenty of dark cherry and raspberry swagger. A bit of citrus in the background contributes a high note, and a touch of oak adds interest. The tannins are nicely balanced and the mouthfeel has considerable suavity. Even better several hours later from a previously opened and re-corked bottle.

93 points

2010 Carr Cabernet Franc, Camp Four Vineyard
Santa Ynez Valley

The Beverage Testing Institute tasted 83 Cabernet Francs and listed us among one of the best.
Deep ruby black color. Aromas and flavors of craisins, chocolate mint, roasted pepper, incense, and leafy herbs with tangy, fruity-yet-dry medium-to-full body and a chewy, fine tannin finish. Very flavorful and vibrant.

– Beverage Testing Institute

90 points

2009 Carr Syrah, Morehouse Vineyard, Santa Ynez Valley

This Syrah is considerably lighter in body than you’d expect for a variety that’s often heavy and full bodied. It has the silkiness of a Pinot Noir, and it’s dry and complex in wild berry, leather, black pepper and cedar flavors. It shows lots of elegance throughout, and could even pick up bottle notes over the next six years. – S.H

93 points

2009 Carr Pinot Noir, Turner Vineyard, Sta. Rita Hills

Medium ruby color; deep black cherry aromas with toasty oak and herbal notes; deep, complex and full bodied, dark cherry and plum flavors with herbal and pepper notes; some tannin and oak; good structure and balance; long finish. Concentrated, deep Pinot with the structure to stand up to a hearty steak or tri-tip.

93 points

2009 Carr Pinot Noir, Kessler-Haak Vineyard, Sta. Rita Hills

Medium-deep ruby color; complex, pretty aromas of black plum, pepper and toasty oak; deep, ripe, black cherry and plum flavors with earthy, smoky notes; some tannin and oak; good structure and balance; long finish. Deep, complex Pinot with a lot going on! Needs time to open up and will definitely reward a few years in your cellar.