The 2022 Roar SantaLuciaHighlands Pinot Noir is a bold yet elegant Central Coast Pinotbrimming with vibrant dark berries, layered herbal complexity, and plush tannins, balanced by fresh acidity and a supple, lingering finish. It’s a standout expression of the appellation.
Snapshot
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Origin & Blend: Estate-grown blend from Rosellas, Garys, Sierra Mar, Pisoni, and Soberanes vineyards in the cool, fog-cooled Santa Lucia Highlands AVAelevating structure and purity
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Alcohol & Body: Clocking in around 14.7% ABV, it delivers a medium to full-bodied palate with plush texture
Nose
Vibrant aromas of blackberry, mulberry, and Bing cherry meet floral and herbal accentslavender, sagebrush, and spearmintfor a layered, inviting bouquet
Palate
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Fruit-forward core: Lush black and red berry compoteboysenberry, blackberry, cherrydrives the palate
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Herbal & savory layers: Hints of sagebrush, thyme, and wild herbs add complexity
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Spice & texture: Toasty baking spice, cinnamon, and cookie-crumble notes wrapped in soft, polished tannins and balanced acidity
Finish & Structure
The finish is long and berry-laced, with subtle spice and a minerally whispera seamless blend of power and finesse
Quality & Reception
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Critic Scores: Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Enthusiast, Wine Spectator, The Wine Independent all rated it between 9293 points
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Vintage Notes: 2022 was marked by dry conditions and early harvest, resulting in concentrated fruit and fine-grained tannins in a vintage praised for density and balance
Drinkability & Pairings
Ready to enjoy now through 2028:
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Wine-centric meals: Pair with roast duck, mushroom risotto, pork tenderloin, or grilled salmon.
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Serving: Open early, serve at cellar (5558F) to accentuate nuanced aromatics and velvety texture.
Final Take
A lush, expressive Pinot that captures the essence of Santa Lucia Highlandsrich, sophisticated, and beautifully balanced. With dark fruit depth and savory elegance, its both approachable now and worthy of the cellar.
“Honors where it comes from and doesn’t sway. It’s steady and true, a practice of consistent devotion to what it stands for.
Tasting Notes
Fruit-driven and wrapped in leather and sagebrush, this blend melds elements from all of our vineyards. This approachable Pinot integrates the best of north and south within the Santa Lucia Highlands.
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