Introduction:
The 2021 Presqu'ile Pinot Noir Estate Vineyard from Santa Maria Valley, California, is a beautifully expressive wine that showcases the elegance and purity of cool-climate Pinot Noir. Crafted from estate-grown fruit, this vintage emphasizes finesse, freshness, and site-driven character.
Terrior:
Located just 16 miles from the Pacific Ocean, the Presqu'ile Estate Vineyard benefits from steady ocean breezes and fog that moderate temperatures, preserving acidity and prolonging ripening. The sandy loam soils, sustainably farmed, promote drainage and encourage deep root systems, resulting in complexity and nuance.
Appearance:
Light ruby in the glass, with crystalline clarity and a delicate garnet rim.
Nose:
Lifted aromatics of raspberry, cherry, and wild strawberry intertwine with earthy notes of forest floor, crushed herbs, rose petals, and a whisper of citrus peel.
Palate:
The palate is supple and graceful, driven by red berry flavors, hints of cranberry, and savory touches of sage and dried herbs. A subtle oak influence adds spice and polish without overshadowing the fruit. The texture is silky, with vibrant acidity and fine-grained tannins that carry through seamlessly.
Finish:
Elegant and persistent, the finish lingers with red fruit, soft minerality, and a refreshing herbal lift.
Overall Impression:
The 2021 Presqu'ile Pinot Noir Estate Vineyard is a refined expression of coastal California Pinot Noir. It balances freshness with depth, offering a wine that is both complex and incredibly drinkable. A superb companion to dishes like duck breast, grilled salmon, or mushroom risotto.
Press:
95 points, Wine Enthusiast:
"Lightly hued in the glass, this wine is loaded on the nose with fresh hints of raspberry alongside an earthy core of forest floor and crushed rocks. Firm tension surrounds the earthy focus of the sip, where clay and loam evolve into raspberry jam, bay leaf, and sagebrush flavors before peppery acidity fires up the finish."
94+ points, Jeb Dunnuck:
"The 2021 Pinot Noir Presqu'ile Vineyard...has another level of purity in its darker cherry and raspberry fruits that give way to beautiful fresh cut rose, black tea, and peppery spice aromas and flavors. Beautifully textured, seamless, and downright silky on the palate, it has fine-grained tannins and outstanding length."
Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): 13.3%
Farming Practices: Sustainable
Producer Name: Presqu'ile Winery
Old World / New World: New World
Country of Origin: United States
Region: California, Santa Maria Valley
Grape Varietals: 100% Pinot Noir
Vintage: 2021
Wine Style: Dry, medium-bodied red wine
Winemaking Techniques: Hand-harvested, destemmed; aged 11 months in French oak (15% new), followed by 6 months in stainless steel
Pack Size: 750 ml bottle
Container Style: Burgundy-style bottle
Closure Style: Cork