As winemaker Margaret Leonardi explains:
Pinot Noir vineyards in Monterey County’s Arroyo Grande region contribute most of the fruit for this wine, with the remaining Pinot Noir coming from the cooler Santa Barbara region.
These vines produce a wine that is medium-bodied with soft tannins and classic Pinot Noir aromas of red fruit, violet, rose petal and earthy mushroom.
The flavors of this wine were enhanced by aging in seasoned American oak, bringing along hints of vanilla, coconut oil, and allspice. Our use of American oak is a twist on the usual method for aging Pinot Noir, and is a boldly spirited pursuit of doing things differently.
Vivino rates this 2020 the top vintage, pricing it at $20, with reviews like these:
Was never really a Pinot noir fan until I tried this Pinot! Other brands have been too sweet for me and this Pinot was not overly sweet. Really amazing wine for its price point.
Love the body, texture, and flavors and dark black fruit.
Very solid for its money. Tastes of dark berries such as blackberries and currents. Balanced in acidity, and although tannins present aren’t particularly high, the level that is present yields a net positive. The barrel oak comes through in a forward way, without being overkill. Has room to improve in the next few years, as I think it will open up.
If you like a bigger, bolder and richer style of Pinot Noir – but one that still stays true to this most fascinating varietal, then this is definitely one for you.
And I don’t think you’ll find anything else like it under $20.
