Morgan Winery was founded in 1982 by Don and Donna Lee with a commitment to crafting refined wines from the Santa Lucia Highlands and Monterey AVA. The winery’s Double L Vineyard is in the northern section of the Santa Luicia Highlands sub-appellation of Monterey. The organically farmed site has 45 acres currently producing Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Syrah. Considered to be the “Côte d’Or” of California, these Santa Lucia Highlands hillside vineyards are in a prime location to produce cool weather varietals. Notable neighbors include Sleepy Hollow, Mer et Soleil, Rosella’s and Garys' vineyards. The first Double L crop was harvested in the Fall of 1999.

The 2021 Morgan Double L Pinot Noir was impressive right from the start showing purity and a deep ruby color in the glass, which prepared me for a wine that would be something special. It was! On the nose it showed classic SLH aromas of rose petals, baked cherry, toasted oak, sage, baking spices, a hint of mint and vanilla. On the palate the wine was elegant, showing layers of juicy red fruit and not a trace of edgy tannins. The wine was soft, round, and expansive with mouth-filling deliciousness. The finish showed some minerality that gives lift and freshness all the way to the end, which took a long time. Great winemaking by Dan Morgan Lee and a pleasure to drink. You can hold it for several years, but it is too good now to wait.

By Perry Miroballi