By minimizing human intervention, McIntyre’s vineyards & wines remain as natural as possible. The 80-acre McIntyre Estate Vineyard lies in the “sweet spot” of the rolling, Santa Lucia Highlands benchland region. The core of the wine comes from the “Old Vine” block. Planted over four decades ago, this is the oldest planting of Pinot Noir in the SLH AVA. It is own rooted – a rarity in California - and Lyre trellis system trained. The remainder is a mix of Swan & Dijon clone 777
Composition: 100% Pinot Noir
Tasting Notes: This Pinot Noir is deep, dark, intense & powerful. The nose is heavily perfumed with subtle baking spices under a full bouquet of plum, black currants, and blueberry compote. Silky tannins and a soft touch of violets open up to more layers of intense blue and black berry fruits, plums, figs, and a touch of baking spice in the finish.
Pairings: Roasted mushrooms with double-cut pork chop, wok-seared baby bok choy, butternut squash & sage ravioli, duck breast and confit leg, or wood oven pizzas & flatbreads.
Winemaking: The grapes for this Pinot were harvested and hand-sorted in the early morning hours. Primary & malolactic fermentations were managed naturally using the wild, indigenous yeast strains that thrive in the vineyards.
Case Production: 380 cases
Winemaker: Byron Kosuge
