Hitching Post - Santa Barbara, USA
If you've seen Sideways, then you'll probably want to try Hitching Post's Highliner.
Gray Hartley & DB
This Santa Barbara Pinot Noir was a go-to for Miles and Maya in the film, and it's easy to see why.
Two long-time friends, Gray Hartley and Frank Ostini have been making wines in Santa Barbara County, California since 1979. Long before Hollywood discovered the winemaking landmark and its excellent wines, Gray Hartley, a former Alaskan salmon fisherman and Frank Ostini, chef and owner of the famed Hitching Post 2 in Buellton, were brought together by their love of wine and winemaking. Over the years their backyard hobby has turned into a highly acclaimed winemaking enterprise.
The name Highliner is a fishing reference to the 'top of the fleet' - a nod to owner Gray Hartley's 28 years as an Alaskan salmon fisherman. The Highliner Pinot Noir is their finest Pinot Noir, with fruit from Santa Maria Valley, Santa Ynez Valley, Santa Rita Hills and Los Alamos. Seductive and brooding, yet boasting an acidic backbone which will extend this life of this bottle for years to come. It's delicious and dangerous.
DB had the recent pleasure of going full sideways - walking down the highway in Buellton from his shitty motel to the Hitching Post, having a fantastic meal at the bar (perfect medium rare on that steak), and many glasses of Pinot!
Meeting Gray in London shortly thereafter was a real treat, this guy's spirit, enthusiasm, and kindness is palpable – and you can taste it in the wines.
Did you know Frank and Gray make more than just pinot? Stay tuned to discover more! We can't wait to share their passion with you.