2019 Pinot Noir, Soberanes Vineyard

Winemaker’s Notes

The Soberanes Vineyard, located in the heart of the Santa Lucia Highlands, builds upon a tradition of high quality growing practices. Working together, the Pisoni and Franscioni families, whose friendship spans three generations and are known for the Pisoni, Gary’s’, Rosella’s and Sierra Mar Vineyards, added Soberanes Vineyard to their portfolio. The Salinas Valley fog and wind allow for slow ripening — a requirement for producing intense, yet elegant Pinot Noir. John been a fan of this vineyard. Well-intentioned, thoughtful farmers – which makes fantastic wines.

One of John’s favorite vineyards outside of Sonoma.

“I was always intrigued with the Gary Pisoni vineyard stories, especially when he describes his bringing Pinot vine cuttings (illegally) from a famous Grand Cru vineyard  in Burgundy through US customs by stuffing them in his pants.  Having always enjoyed Pisoni vineyard wines, I made 3 trips to visit Gary in Gonzales, and finally convinced him to sell our new brand some fruit, and so we could make some Pinot Noir that closely resembled a Grand Cru Burgundy.  As usual, working with great farmers is key to making great wines.” John Sweazey

The Vineyard

One of California’s most sought-after sites, the Soberanes Vineyard is located in the Santa Lucia Highlands AVA. Proximity to the Pacific Ocean leaves a thick blanket of fog across the vineyards most mornings. By the afternoon, strong winds lift the fog giving way to sunny afternoons; perfect for developing expressive, complex Pinot Noir. This is the only vineyard we work with outside of the Sonoma wine country.