2018 Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir

2018 was the best growing season the Santa Lucia Highlands has seen since 2012.  From the perfect spring weather during set, through the warm but even summer, and into the cool fall and later than average harvest, all was ideal.  Our '18 SLH Pinot comes from both the Peterson and Cortada Alta Vineyards, which are owned by August West partner, John Peterson.  These two sites are only about 4 miles apart, but there's a 1,000 foot change in elevation as you leave Peterson and drive into the Santa Lucia Mountains to get to Cortada Alta.  This leads to a complex blend which combines the cool-climate, spicy Pinot of Peterson with the high altitude, mountain fruit from Cortada. 

 

With a nose of cherries, dried flowers and rhubarb, the 2018 Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir has a rich round palate and excellent acidity.  The long, pleasant finish is robust and complex, and should lead to long aging potential.  This should drink well from 2021-2028.

Wine Profile

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