Hug Cellars was established in 1994 by Augie and Raquel Hug. Initially making their wines at Alban Vineyards, the Hugs made a leap of faith to open their own winery in 2000. 5 years later, Edgar Torres joined the Hug team as assistant winemaker. In 2015, Augie and Raquel decided it was time to slow down and move on from the wine industry, leaving Edgar at the helm of the winery.
Katelyn and I met Edgar years ago when we hosted him to pour for a tasting at our wine shop. At the time, he was pouring his personal label ——-> Bodega de Edgar. Edgar is one of the coolest guys in the wine game and over SEVERAL glasses of his Spanish influenced BdeE label, a lasting friendship was born……. He’s since moved on to also take the reins at Hug Cellars (yea he’s a busy guy) and is absolutely KILLING over there with his Pinots and Syrah!!!
In the glass, this Santa Barbara Pinot has a DARK core with dark bricking edges and a magenta halo….
When I give the wine a sniff I get delicious cherries, perfume, raspberries, and sweet oak…..
On the palate, there is a nice silky texture that sets the stage for a bright cranberry beginning. The mid-palate is full of blueberries and blackberries and by the time I take a chew all I can think is DAMN….This thing has some umph behind it…. The ending shows a hint of vanilla and Cran-Apple and the finish is long with herbs and anise.
Guys and gals, you’ve got to check out Hug Cellars AND Bodega De Edgar! This Pinot is reason enough to fall in love with Hug but over at BdeE there are some really fun Spanish offerings that you CANNOT SLEEP ON!!! Check them both out y’all, you’ll thank me later….
2013 Hug Cellars “Rancho Ontiveros Pinot Noir” Santa Barbara CA
Wines on the Range 