VINEYARD Garys’, Pisoni, Rosella’s, Sierra Mar, and Soberanes
HARVEST October 1 – 9
FERMENTATION Cold soak for 5 days on average / Ferment for 14 days on average / 86° F peak
OAK 50% new French oak / 16 months
ALCOHOL 14.5%
pH 3.65
TA 6.2 g/L
AROMA
This wine displays deep notes of orange peel, cherries, and five-spice and is supported by hints of ginger, strawberry, and rhubarb.
PALATE
Our Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir is a luscious mouth-filling wine. It is deeply structured with supple tannins centered in the mid-palate. A sweet and sour mix of red and black fruits; penetrating red cherry and blackberry dominate, ending in a clean strawberry and dark cherry finish.
The Santa Lucia Highlands is one of the crown jewels of California viticulture, growing and producing some of the state’s best cool climate Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Syrah. The appellation encompasses more than 5,000 acres of prime vineyards, planted on the elevated terraces of the Santa Lucia mountain range. The area’s unique character was recognized with official AVA status in 1991.
Our 2010 Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir is a blend of five vineyards: Garys’, Pisoni, Rosella’s, Sierra Mar, and Soberanes. These vineyards are located in the heart of the Santa Lucia Highlands and are built upon a tradition of high-quality hand-wine-growing. We are so grateful for the friendship of the Pisoni and Franscioni families, whose own friendship spans three generations, and who provided us access to this spectacular fruit.
THE SANTA LUCIA HIGHLANDS IS recognized for producing some of California’s most powerful yet intricate and impeccably balanced Pinot Noirs. Perched upon the East-facing terraces of the Santa Lucia Mountains, the vines are consistently cooled by wind and fog drawn from the depths of Monterey Bay.
Within this region is the city of Salinas, an agricultural town surrounded by fruit and vegetable growers with a comprehensive climate blended of coastal breezes and sun that is ideal for grape-growing. There are plenty of favorite local hangouts to discover if you make the stop. The BBQ is truly magical and worthy of a detour in and of itself.
