VINEYARD Sierra Mar, Sobranes, Garys’, Rosella’s, Pisoni
FERMENTATION 84% stainless steel open tops, 7% wood open tops, 1% concrete, 6% whole cluster
OAK 20% new French oak for 14 months
ALCOHOL 14.6%
pH 3.61
TA 5.5 g/L
AROMA
Bright, fresh notes of pomegranate, rhubarb, orange, and raspberry complement a touch of subtle toast.
PALATE
Approachable and commanding entry with a pleasurable mid-palate and a long, rich, thorough finish.
With idyllic weather from start to finish, 2018 was one of the finest growing seasons of the past decade. Each wine within the Appellation Series embodies the unique qualities we cherish from the regions we work with.
Located on the eastern slopes of the coastal range that shelters the fertile Salinas Valley from Big Sur, this appellation is relatively new with the first vineyards being developed only in the 1970s. Surprisingly, these central coast slopes are generally cooler than the Russian River Valley, largely as a result of the ocean breezes and fog coming in from Monterey Bay. The vineyards are sheltered by the coastal peaks that limit rainfall. Pinot Noir excels on these hillsides – which is why our travels took us here.
During the 2018 vintage, the Santa Lucia Highlands had the lowest highs seen in a long time which resulted in being a week or two behind normal. This allowed for significant hang-time and thus, phenolic development, higher acids and a burst of red fruit notes like pomegranate, raspberry, and rhubarb. This Pinot Noir is commanding yet, approachable.
Fact of Note: Aged in 20% NFO.
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.
