The Santa Lucia Highland’s cool climate is very well suited to Pinot Gris. The R&D Franscioni Vineyard is the exclusive source of the grapes for this wine.
The Vineyard
The R&D Franscioni Vineyard is directly across from Rosella’s Vineyard in the northern end of the Santa Lucia Highlands. Soil is sandy loam on the east-facing bench overlooking the Salinas Valley. The Santa Lucia Highlands region is rated Zone 1 (coolest) on the UC Davis scale and summer daytime high temperatures average in the mid-70’s.
The Vintage
2008 was another interesting growing season in the Santa Lucia Highlands. Early abundant rainfall was followed by months of dry weather and unpredictable temperatures. The vines remained healthy throughout the changing weather conditions with lighter than “normal” yields. Consequently the fruit displays intense flavors, a hallmark of the Highlands.
Vinification and Aging
Following a gentle whole cluster pressing, Pinot Gris is cold fermented in stainless steel to preserve the freshness of the fruit. After fermentation, the wine is racked into three year-old French oak barrels for four months to soften the texture slightly and add complexity without oak flavors. The wine was bottled in February 2009 to capture the bright flavors and crisp acidity.
Aromas, Flavors & Palate Impressions
This wine displays an array of fruit balanced by mineral and a floral presence. The nose includes: banana, pear, orange blossoms, grapefruit and a hint minerals. In the mouth additional notes of lime, minerals, and green apple are present. This is a rich Pinot Gris with more complexity than most – it remains crisp with a balanced finish. This wine would complement boldly flavored foods such as pesto, shellfish, ceviche, and poultry dishes.
Reviews
Four Stars, Restaurant Wines, Issue #130
90, Wine Review Online, September 4, 2009
88, Wine Advocate, August 31, 2009
