Introduction
The 2023 Stolpman Para Maria Rosé from Santa Barbara County, California, is a bright and expressive rosé that showcases the warm, coastal climate of California’s Central Coast. Crafted by Stolpman Vineyards in collaboration with vineyard manager Maria Solorzano, this wine celebrates her dedication to sustainable viticulture and quality winemaking. This rosé is fruit-forward, refreshing, and balanced, capturing the essence of California’s vibrant terroir.
Terrior
Santa Barbara County’s coastal climate is characterized by sunny days, cool Pacific breezes, and diverse soils, creating an ideal environment for rosé. The cooler nights preserve natural acidity, while the limestone-rich soils add a mineral complexity to the wine, resulting in a rosé with depth and brightness.
Appearance
Pale pink with a light coral hue, clear and bright, indicative of freshness and vibrancy.
Nose
The nose is aromatic and inviting, with notes of strawberry, watermelon, and raspberry, complemented by hints of citrus zest and a touch of rose petal. Subtle herbal notes add complexity, reflecting the coastal influence of Santa Barbara County.
Palate
On the palate, this rosé is light-bodied with crisp acidity. Flavors of ripe red berries, including strawberry and cranberry, are balanced by grapefruit and a hint of minerality. The dry profile and smooth texture make it refreshing and approachable, with a vibrant, mouth-filling presence.
Finish
The finish is clean, mineral-driven, and refreshing, with lingering red fruit and citrus notes that leave a lively, mouthwatering impression.
Overall Impression
The 2023 Stolpman Para Maria Rosé is a beautifully balanced and terroir-driven rosé that captures the spirit of California’s Central Coast. Its bright acidity, fresh fruit, and subtle complexity make it a versatile pairing for seafood, salads, grilled chicken, and light cheeses, as well as a delightful option for sunny days and casual gatherings.
Published Rankings
Wine Enthusiast Rating: 90
Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): 12.5%
Farming Practices: Sustainable and organic-focused, with minimal intervention to support biodiversity and vineyard health. Stolpman Vineyards emphasizes hand-harvesting, organic composting, and cover cropping for environmental stewardship.
Producer Name: Stolpman Vineyards
Old World / New World: New World
Country of Origin: USA
Region: Santa Barbara County, California
Grape Varietals: Typically Syrah, with possible blends of Grenache or other Rhône varieties
Vintage: 2023
Wine Style: Dry Rosé
Winemaking Techniques: Fermented in stainless steel to retain freshness and aromatic purity, with minimal intervention to highlight the character of the grapes and Santa Barbara’s terroir
Pack Size: 750 ml
Container Style: Bottle
Closure Style: Cork