The 2009 Pinot Noir Pisoni bursts from the glass with layers of exotic dark red and black fruit, menthol, spices and new leather. The Pisoni shows gorgeous balance between the elegant and powerful elements of Pinot Noir. Dark cherries, spices, licorice and a melange of balsamic aromas and flavors are beautifully layered on the long finish. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2019.
This is a set of sublime, elegant wines from Gary and Rosella Franscioni at Roar. The Franscionis own a number of vineyards, including Rosella’s, Sierra Mar and Garys’ (with the Pisoni family), all in the Santa Lucia Highlands. In addition to making their own wines, the Franscionis also sell fruit to a number of small, artisanal wineries. The Franscioni’s latest project is Sierra Mar, a dramatic hillside vineyard with multiple exposures and one isolated, striking plot that looks like a setting for an opening scene in a James Bond movie.
Tel. (831) 675-1681; www.roarwines.com