Our 2002 Pinot Noir is a dark ruby color with a complex nose of spice, oak and floral notes followed by generous varietal Pinot Noir aromas. Approachable and engaging with the first sip, the wine’s explosive cherry fruit and nice structure is unmistakably Pinot Noir, ending in a long, pleasant aftertaste.

The 2002 vintage on the Central Coast began with a very cool spring, which reduced bloom and fruit set. In the Santa Lucia Highlands, grape cluster sizes were about 50 percent smaller than the previous vintage. When the heat finally arrived, ripening was very rapid and harvest was short during the early part of September. The vintage was a struggle for the vines and the vineyard workers, but the small grapes made a rich, dark wine.

Food pairing

Many foods and cheeses match well with this versatile wine. Roasted lamb with mint sauce, a grilled pork loin or salmon fillet all fit the bill. A local artisan cheese with a baguette would be a perfect match for this bottle of 2002 Pinot Noir