2010 Pisoni Vineyards Pinot Noir Estate
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Tasting notes
800 c/s. Pisoni also sell a lot of fruit. First planted by Gary Pisoni in 1982, and now managed by his son Mark, Pisoni Vineyards consists of small vineyard blocks arranged on and around the ridges of the mountainous landscape. Ranging in size from one-half to 17 acres, the vineyard blocks perch at an altitude of 1,300 feet (some of the highest in Santa Lucia Highlands) in the granite-laced mountains of the coastal Santa Lucia Range. Winemaker Jeff Pisoni (brother of Mark). 100% ambient yeast, 10 – 30% whole cluster, 11 months in French oak, 65% new. According to Karen MacNeil, Santa Lucia Highlands is the Nuits-St-Georges of California. Very deeply coloured for Pinot Noir. Ripe, dark spicy cherry. A little toasty. Very firm, dry tannins. Needs time. Firm and uncompromising. (JH)
Critic scores
Average Score
Julia Harding MW, jancisrobinson.com
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Bright ruby. Vibrant raspberry and cherry aromas are complicated by Asian spices and candied rose. The palate offers lively red berry and bitter cherry flavors enlivened by notes of blood orange and smoky minerals. The strikingly long, spicy finish features fine-grained tannins and a late floral kick.
The 2010 Pinot Noir Pisoni comes across as more structured than most of the wines made by the Pisoni family in this vintage. Firm yet well-integrated tannins form the backdrop for an expressive tapestry of bright red fruit, flowers, licorice and spices that gradually unfold in the glass. The use of 20% whole clusters brings out an aromatic register that is quite appealing. A poised, beautifully articulated finish rounds things out in style. This is a great showing from the Pisoni family, one of the early pioneers of the Santa Lucia Highland and one of its most eloquent exponents today.
The 2010 Pinot Noir Pisoni comes across as more structured than most of the wines made by the Pisoni family in this vintage. Firm yet well-integrated tannins form the backdrop for an expressive tapestry of bright red fruit, flowers, licorice and spices that gradually unfold in the glass. The use of 20% whole clusters brings out an aromatic register that is quite appealing. A poised, beautifully articulated finish rounds things out in style. This is a great showing from the Pisoni family, one of the early pioneers of the Santa Lucia Highland and one of its most eloquent exponents today. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2020. Tel. (800) 946-3130; www.pisonivineyards.com