VINEYARD Garys’, Santa Lucia Highlands AVA
CLONES Pisoni
TRELLISING VSP
SOIL Chualar loam
FERMENTATION 48% stainless steel, 30% concrete, 22% oak; 7% whole cluster
ÉLEVAGE 44% new French oak & 56% neutral oak for 15 months, then 100% of the blend was aged for 1 month in stainless steel
ALCOHOL 14.1%
pH 3.66
TA 5.45 g/L
AROMA
Enticing aromas of raspberry, cherry, and blackberry, accented by subtle cocoa nibs and hints of dried herbs.
PALATE
Rich and smooth, with balanced acidity and refined tannins that complement layers of fresh black plum, stewed cherry, and a touch of baking spice, leading to a lingering, elegant finish.
Founded in 1997, Garys’ Vineyard is a celebrated collaboration between the Franscioni and Pisoni families. Located just south of Rosella’s Vineyard, it produces a unique expression of Pinot Noir, reflecting its distinctive terroir and the expertise of its founders.
The 2023 Garys’ Vineyard Pinot Noir showcases the nuance and richness inherent in the tightly clustered Pisoni clone. Fermented in a blend of stainless steel, concrete, and oak using 7% whole clusters, this wine was aged for 15 months in 44% new French oak and 56% neutral oak, followed by an additional month in stainless steel.
With enticing aromas of raspberry, cherry, and blackberry accented by subtle cocoa nibs, this Pinot Noir offers an astoundingly smooth texture on the palate. Balanced acidity and refined tannins complement layers of fresh black plum, stewed cherry, and a hint of baking spice, culminating in a lingering, elegant finish.
Fact of Note: Garys’ Vineyard had only two harvest picks, scheduled seven days apart.
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.
