Known as one of the appellation’s most esteemed properties, the Soberanes Vineyard bears the family name of José María Soberanes, who marched from Mexico to Monterey Bay with the famed Portolá expedition. The Pisoni and Franscioni families joined forces again to farm this most recent addition to the vineyard family. The vineyard lies adjacent to Gary’s Vineyard; the sandy loam soils boast significant sub-soil boulders layered into the alluvial fan.

The 2019 Lucia Soberanes Vineyard Pinot Noir is a dazzling display of symmetry from this iconic site, with each component in perfect balance. The color is rich dark ruby. Aromas immediately began flowing from the glass. Juicy aromatics of ripe raspberry and red cherry are countered flawlessly with more elegant notes of Asian spice, cinnamon, earth, vanilla, and hint of cedar. There is extra care in crafting this exceptional Pinot Noir showing incredibly pure flavors of ripe plum, fig, black cherry, and a dusty character that coats the palate. The velvety tannins are combined with fresh, vibrant acidity.

By Perry Miroballi