Higher Ground Pinot Noir 2014

What is it about Monterey County that provides such bang for the buck? Simple – nobody goes there! Far south of the famed Sonoma and Napa regions, and far north of the Santa Barbara area regions, Monterey is the region wine forgot! With a town population of only 28,000, it is hardly a tourist mecca.

Yet, for wine, especially Pinot Noir, it is a dream come true! Cooling winds from the Pacific and high elevations offer bright acidity and balance to the sweet, ripe fruit. The result is world-class Pinot at an off-the-beaten-path price!

To this we add winemaker Alison Crowe. A graduate of the famed UC Davis Oenology program, Alison spent five years working with legendary winemaker Randall Graham at Bonny Doon. She followed this with a stint in Argentina, working alongside French legend Michel Rolland at Bodegas Salentin. Her varied experience gives her a unique perspective, and a bevy of “weapons” at her disposal!

This gem explodes from the glass with layered aromas of ripe blackberries, cherries preserves, and hints of vanilla toffee and toasted oak that extend to the palate.  Rich, dark red berry fruit, juicy plum and cranberry flavors are accented with spice notes and a touch of smoky earth.  This is an elegant, velvety textured Pinot, yet bright, balanced, and altogether delicious.