Santa Lucia Highlands makes amazing Pinot Noir

What are the Santa Lucia Highlands? They are a long, narrow AVA in the western part of Monterey, California. The area was established in the 18th Century by Spanish missionaries. Like most of California the wine industry took shape in the 1970s, and the area became an AVA in 1991. The Santa Lucia Highlands have Pacific cooling influences, elevated slopes, lots of daytime sun and nightime temperature shifts provide ideal location for a long growing season for late ripening varietals,  which develops complex character and fresh acidity. . Santa Lucia Highlands have one of the longest growing seasons in California, sometimes 6 weeks later than other regions in California. The soils in the Santa Lucia Highlands are well drained and have low fertility, making them perfect for the production of premium grapes.

The 2014 CRŪ Vineyard Montage Pinot Noir was sourced primarily from the marine-influenced Sarmento Vineyard in the Santa Lucia Highlands. The vineyard is characterized by morning fog and afternoon winds which help to provide an ideal climate for Burgundian varietals. Multiple clones were used in the production of this pinot noir. By utilizing various clones from multiple elevations, the wine-maker creates depth, complexity in aroma and balance to the final blend. Aged for 9 months in French oak, 20% being new barrels, imparts a toasty, vanilla and spice to the wine, as well as complexity and texture.

2014 Cru Montage Vineyards is an excellent example of a lip smacking, can’t stop drinking this wine it’s so good Pinot Noir!! It’s full of cherry, pomegranate, cranberry, blood orange, earthy, cedar, rose petal sweet spices( cloves and vanilla), hint of struck match. You won’t want to stop drinking this well balanced all around wine. Balanced acidity, soft tannins and medium bodied wine. This is a unique homage to the classic Burgundy Pinot Noir.