Gary Franscioni has spent decades proving that great Pinot Noir begins long before harvest. For the 2023 vintage, he assembled fruit from several of the family’s top vineyard blocks, each contributing its own dimension of fruit, structure, and freshness. Careful sorting, gentle handling, and a thoughtful approach to French oak preserve the character of each site while letting the region take center stage.

The 2023 vintage delivered ideal conditions. A long, even growing season allowed the fruit to develop exceptional depth while retaining the vibrant energy that defines Santa Lucia Highlands. The result is a 96-point Pinot Noir that offers one of California’s benchmark producers for $49.99, below the winery’s own $55 release price.

Tasting Notes: “As much as fans crave this appellation's single-vineyard expressions, the regional cuvees are often better than the sum of their parts. This bottling falls right in line, starting with buoyant aromas of rose potpourri, intense strawberry and baking spice on the nose. The palate pairs poached berry and stewed cherry flavors with acid-driven blood orange peel and herbal pine needle touches." 96 Points | Editors' Choice | Matt Kettmann | Wine Enthusiast

Tasting Notes: "Bright red fruits, sassafras, minty herbs, and flowers define the 2023 Pinot Noir Santa Lucia Highlands. Pretty and pure, this medium-bodied effort shows considerable elegance, soft tannins, nicely integrated acidity, and a forward, charming, and delicious personality. Drink over the coming 4-6 years, if not longer." 93 Points | Jeb Dunnuck

Tasting Notes: "The 2023 Pinot Noir (Santa Lucia Highlands) is an excellent introduction to the house style and the character of the vintage. Supple and textured, it boasts a beautifully articulated core of plump, sweet berry fruit and blood orange juiciness. Surprisingly structured for an appellation-level wine, the 2023 is a compelling choice for drinking in the near to medium term while the single-vineyard bottlings soften up." 93 Points | Billy Norris | Vinous