93+ Jeb Dunnuck - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

"The 2012 Pinot Noir Vanguard comes mostly from the Sanford & Benedict Vineyard, yet has 15% of the blend coming from Bien Nacido. Aged in 45% new French oak, it’s a rich, muscular effort that has lots of underbrush & herbs to go with toast, spice, black raspberry & currant-styled fruit. This concentrated, yet layered & seamless beauty will drink well for over a decade. One of the top Chardonnay & Pinot Noir producers in Santa Barbara County, The Hilt is managed by the team at Jonata, with up-&-coming superstar winemaker Matt Dees making the wines. They two Chardonnays & Pinot Noirs in each vintage, a younger vine cuvee, the Vanguard, & an old vine cuvee, the Old Guard. Both are superb & if you have any interest in Pinot Noir or Chardonnay, you need to check out these wines!"

93 Antonio Galloni - Vinous

"The 2012 Pinot Noir The Vanguard opens with expressive, perfumed aromatics. Supple and expressive, the 2012 is wonderfully radiant on the palate, with gorgeous depth and terrific overall balance. Dark red cherry, plum and spice notes flesh out on the inviting finish. Slight hints of gaminess add the final layers of nuance. The 2012 is 85% Sanford and Benedict and 15% Bien Nacido fruit."