2021 Capiaux Pisoni Pinot Noir

Santa Lucia Highlands

20% whole cluster, 4-day cold soak. Uninoculated fermentation in open top tanks with Pulsair (cap management using compressed air) and traditional punch downs. Secondary malolactic fermentation occurred in barrel with the wine aging sur lie 11 months until bottling without fining or filtration. No acid additions.

What started in 1982 as just two acres of vines planted at the edge of the family's horse ranch, Gary Pisoni has expanded to 45 acres. Grapevines contour on and around the rugged mountain range in what is now known as Santa Lucia Highlands. The vineyard is primarily decomposed granite with large deposits of quartz. Gravelly soils stress the vines and lower yields. Fog blankets the vineyard maintaining cool temperatures that retain vibrant acidity and aromatics. Sustainable farming practices balance the land which his family has tilled for three generations.

In the glass dark ruby with a purple core. Aromas of toasty vanilla mingling with cherry blossoms. Allspice intermingles with cherry and pomegranate. A lush elegant wine with a finish of cocoa and barrel sweetness.

Reviews:
Vinous/Galloni 96 Pts “…fabulous, bright, punchy and explosive, the 2021 captures the essence of this Santa Lucia Highlands site. Inky blue/purplish fruit, lavender, spice, licorice and mint saturate the palate. Even with all its intensity, the 2021 retains terrific freshness and verve. This Capiaux wine emerges from the one parcel at Pisoni planted with own rooted vines.” Drinking window: 2026 - 2036 .

Appellation:    100% Santa Lucia Highlands
Vineyard:      100% Pisoni (Camper Block)
Harvest date:  September 23rd            
Brix @ harvest:  25.3
Bottling date:  September 2022
Release date:  September 2023                
pH:                    3.76
TA (g/1):            5.9 
Alcohol:            14.7                   
Aging:           11 months French oak (30% new)
Production:       147 cases