GOLD MEDAL - San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition
GOLD MEDAL - Central Coast Wine Competition
The more 2007 California Pinot we taste, the more clear it becomes just how remarkable a vintage this was for Pinot vineyards all over the Golden State. While the vintage was hyped from the beginning, it is only with a little bit more bottle age that the wines are starting to drink to their potential. Today we are happy to have Heisted yet another gem from 2007, and especially excited that we are able to offer a single vineyard Pinot of this caliber for just $30. While there are many blended Pinot Noir that offer plenty of drinking pleasure, Pinot at its apex reflects the terroir in which it is grown, and this is only possible with a single vineyard wine. When the vineyard happens to be in an AVA like the Santa Maria Valley, with its perfect climate for Pinot, and the wine is well made, the result is stunning, and the 2007 William James Cellars Garey Ranch Pinot is just such a wine.
The 2007 William James Garey Ranch Pinot Noir is deep ruby in color. The nose is classic Pinot, with earthy, spicy notes stealing the show from the aromas of fresh berries. The palate shows more prevalent fruit, with black cherry, plum, and cranberry, and just a hint of pepper. It is beautifully balanced with plenty of acid to compliment the full body and structured tannins. The finish is incredibly persistent, with layers of fruit and spice coating the palate long after the wine is gone. A wonderful example of Pinot Noir from Santa Maria, this will pair beautifully with dishes that cry out for Pinot, like roasted pork, or anything with mushrooms. This is one you don’t want to miss out on!
Vineyard: Garey Ranch Vineyard
Clones: 777 and 115
Cooperage: 50% new French Oak barrels for 11 months
Alcohol: 14.5%
Case Production: 300
95 Points
Seductive aromas of black fruits – blackberries, black currant, black cherry – accented by exotic wafts of cardamom and nutmeg. Still greater depth is achieved on the palate, with red berries, blackberries, and hints of blood orange and dried cranberries, bolstered by bright acidity. Vibrant tannins provide additional structure and
94 Points
Aromas of honey, ginger, and key lime radiate from this elegant Chardonnay. A burst of fresh citrus, lime, and star fruit enlivens the front palate upon first sip and is quickly followed by ginger and white pepper, all underscored by subtle notes of white peach and cardamom. Vibrant acidity and steely minerality give the wine excellent structure as it moves into a long, flavorful finish.
93 Points
Robust aromatics of boysenberry, blackberry, cranberry, and black cherry are the centerpiece of this wine, harmonizing with the underlying aromas of violets, sandalwood, and forest floor. The first sip opens on the palate with a rush of softness and density, and lush, savory tannins. Red berries, blackberry, and cassis envelop the tongue on the mid-palate, gently punctuated with subtle acidity followed by a long, flavorful finish.
90 Points
Aromas of cranberry, sour cherry, plum, and orange rind, complemented by hints of forest floor, pine needles, and rosemary. The wine opens with flavor of juicy red fruit supported by spicy undertones of red pepper and black tea. The freshness of its red fruit are enhanced a vibrant core of light acidity and full rich tannins all of which linger gracefully in the long finish.
94 Points
Aromas of fresh lime, verbena, and gooseberry are followed by a juicy, aromatic front palate with bright acidity that wakes up your taste buds. The heightened aromatics develop even greater complexity on the mid-palate, featuring fresh lemon and star fruit, with just a hint of green apple and mango. Gorgeous structural precision leads to a long and chiseled finish with lasting minerality.
