2023 Pinot Noir, Soberanes Vineyard
95 Points - International Wine Report
From the famed Soberanes Vineyard in Monterey County, this Pinot Noir holds a special place for Anaba proprietor John Sweazey. The 2023 vintage offers black cherry, black plum and layered spice on the nose, with blackberry, orange rind and hibiscus on the palate. Firm tannins give structure and ageworthy potential to evolve beautifully in the cellar.
About this wine
Sourced from Soberanes Vineyard in the Santa Lucia Highlands, this Pinot Noir reflects the longstanding friendship between the Pisoni and Franscioni families. Winemaker Katy Wilson aged the 2023 vintage for 20 months in French oak.
The 2023 growing season in Monterey County brought plenty of winter rain and a cool summer, allowing the grapes to ripen slowly. We picked the fruit on October 13, with the extended season helping develop flavor while preserving the natural acidity that gives Pinot Noir its freshness.
The wine opens with juicy plum, crushed cherry and strawberry, followed by black cherry and mulling spices on the palate. Firm tannins and a lingering finish give it the structure to age gracefully.
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, Anaba Proprietor