Pinot Noir – Arroyo Seco, Monterey

Pinot Noir – Arroyo Seco, Monterey

100% Pinot Noir from Arroyo Seco. The Arroyo Seco appellation, which literally means “dry riverbed,” begins in a steep, narrow gorge at the foot of the Santa Lucia mountain range in Monterey County. Moving east, the topography widens and eventually opens up to the warm, fertile soil of the Salinas Valley. Deep in the canyon, vineyards are shielded from characteristic afternoon winds and thus experience warmer temperatures. As the canyon opens to the valley floor, the afternoon Pacific Ocean breeze cools the grapes, tempering their growth and intensifying the fruit flavors.

For the Pinot Noir to get the best extraction of flavor, while maintaining a supple and delicate mouth feel and preserving the color and varietal character, fermentation takes place at moderate temperatures with a few pump overs per day. It is followed by 2-3 days of extended maceration. It is then gently pressed, with some of the wine going straight to French oak barrels, and the balance going to tank for settling. The tank and barrel lots are rotated mid-season. The mild spring and cooler summer in Monterey County give the Pinot Noir grapes a chance to achieve optimum maturity with great balance of acidity and flavor and with the deep color that is characteristic of Arroyo Seco Pinot Noir. The red fruit brightens across the palate, picking up raspberry and spice balanced by the French toasty oak aromas. Soft and silky through the middle, this wine finishes vibrant and juicy. 13.5% alcohol.