VINEYARD Pisoni Vineyard
CLONES Pisoni
ORIENTATION North/South
TRELLISING Uni-lateral cordon
SOIL Glacial alluvial
FERMENTATION 64% concrete, 36% wood, 24% whole cluster
OAK 48% new French oak for 16 months
ALCOHOL 14.5%
pH 3.68
TA 5.4 g/L
AROMA
Poetic aromas of blood orange, plum, and kiwi with power and poise.
PALATE
Strong, with a complex structure that floods the palate. Focused, dark fruit with eloquent energy.
Widely recognized as one of California’s greatest vineyards, Pisoni helped to make the Pinot Noirs from the Santa Lucia Highlands among the most coveted in the state. Reaching elevations of 1,300 feet, and featuring granite and sandstone soils, as well as a southeastern exposure, the site always yields a dramatic wine, with incredible color and concentration. The 45 planted acres here are divided into small blocks that follow the contours of the mountains. The lean, decomposed granite soils are well-drained, stressing the vines and forcing their roots deep into the earth in search of water and nutrients.
While the 2018 vintage is undeniably rich and robust, it carries its power with flowing grace and energy as it reveals layers of blood orange, Damson plum, kiwi, and chaparral. Beautifully structured, and with an uncommonly long and poetic finish, it is a benchmark wine from a legendary vineyard.
Fact of Note: Part of the Pisoni Vineyard was planted in 1982.
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.
