93 Points - Bacchus & Berry
90 Points - Tasting Panel Magazine
Gold Medal - 2013 Critics Challenge Wine Competition
Arroyo Seco, a sub-region within Monterrey County defined by the distinct soils left by an ancient river that once flowed through the area, is probably best known—to those who know it at all—for its chardonnay. But thanks to a small but dedicated group of producers, this cool, wind-swept region is gaining a reputation for Pinot Noir.
Vineyard Notes
Located on Arroyo Seco Road, this 60-acre vineyard is owned by Mark Chesebro and farmed by Michael Griva. Found at the base of the Santa Lucia Mountains the sand and cobblestone soils are well draining, which help to diminish yields. The vineyard is planted to multiple varietals, including 7 different clones of Pinot Noir.
Winemaking Notes
The Pinot Noir was hand-harvested on September 23, 2009. At the winery, the fruit was gently crushed and de-stemmed with the must racked to tank. Cold-soaked for two days the juice was inoculated and spent the 15 days extracting color and favors from the skins. Following the extraction period the must was pressed and the wine racked to French oak barrels. Aged for over ten months the wine was bottled on August 25, 2010.
Tasting Notes
This enchanting wine epitomizes the elegance and richness of Pinot Noir from Arroyo Seco AVA. Loaded with juicy berry fruit, the bouquet fills with raspberry and wild huckleberry. In its recesses aromas of pomegranate, rustic bread, cinnamon, roses and earthy characters abound. Dark in color, on the palate this wine shows a great red berry and cherry core along with firm acidity and supple tannins.
Vineyards: Cedar Lane Vineyard
Composition: 100% Pinot Noir
Clones: 60% - Pommard Clone 4, 40% -“Dijon” Clone 667
Harvest: September 23, 2009
Aging: French Oak, 30% New Dargaud & Jaegle (cooper)
Bottled: August 25, 2010
Acidity: 0.59
pH: 3.61
Alcohol: 14.5%
Production: 206 cases
Gold Medal
Light pink in color with aromas of watermelon, cranberry, orange rind, and fresh spring flowers that leap from the glass. The palate offers more peach, strawberry, and melon, with an intriguing note of rose and hibiscus. It's crisp with just the perfect hint of red fruit, and delicate whisper of strawberry that gives goosebumps.
90 Points
Rich and voluptuous with ripe raspberry, cherry, and plum, layered with hints of lavender, fig compote, and exotic spice. Concentrated and complex, the palate is a balanced interplay cocoa, and a hint of espresso, creating both richness and intrigue. Vibrant acidity and silky tannins that contribute heft and length that coat the palate with luscious ripeness that keeps on giving.
94 Points
A classic expression of coastal influenced Chardonnay with aromas of honey, apple chutney, lime blossom, and gentle Indian spice box undertones. A big juicy entry on the palate, showing a silky texture with excellent tension and structure, ending with a complex, layered finish.
95 Points
Lofty aromas of dark cherries, blackberries, and plum mingle with hints of baking spices and a touch of violet. The palate reveals luscious flavors of ripe berries, complemented by notes of black pepper and a subtle earthiness. With well-integrated tannins and a long lingering finish.
92 Points
Inviting aromas of ripe cherry, strawberry, and pomegranate. The palate unfolds with layered flavors of black cherry, raspberry cordial, vanilla bean and spice, where focused tannins envelop, leading to a rich red fruit finish with blue fruit undertones.
Gold Medal
Generously packed with black cherry, cola, cassis, and plum that all intermingle together in a creamy, velvety texture with great layering, finishing with delightful notes of oak and spice. Persistent, well-defined structure, wonderfully balanced.
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