Region and Vineyards
The St. Georges Pinot Noir draws its fruit primarily from the historic Besson Family Vineyard, located at the foot of the Santa Cruz Mountains near Gilroy, California. Planted decades ago, these vines benefit from a meso-climate that imparts vibrant notes of cherry liqueur and a distinctive herbal raciness.
Supplementing this base are select sites in the Gabilan Range, including the Enz, Rodnick, and Boer Vineyards. These vineyards, situated on soils rich in limestone, dolomite, and granite, contribute approximately 15% of the blend, adding a stony, mineral-driven complexity to the wine. Together, these vineyards create a wine that reflects both the terroir diversity and the unique microclimates of the Central Coast.
Winemaking
The 2021 vintage provided ideal growing conditions, with a late summer and fall free from heat spikes or adverse weather. Though yields were lower than expected, the result was fruit of exceptional concentration and detail.
In the cellar, Birichino adopted a minimalist approach to preserve the vibrant character of the Pinot Noir. Roughly one-third of the stems were included in the fermentation to enhance structure and aromatic complexity. After destemming, the stems were recombined with the fruit, and fermentation was conducted spontaneously with native yeasts.
Avoiding the use of new oak, extended skin contact, or prolonged oak aging, the wine was crafted to highlight its bright fruit, youthful energy, and an almost alpine-like freshness. This restrained winemaking ensures the purest expression of the vineyards and the vintage.
Tasting Notes
- Color: Bright ruby red with garnet highlights.
- Aroma: A fragrant bouquet of wild cherries, cranberries, and subtle hints of herbal botanicals. Earthy undertones and a faint touch of minerality add depth and intrigue.
- Palate: Light to medium-bodied, offering flavors of red berries, pomegranate, and a whisper of spice. Fine, silky tannins and refreshing acidity lead to a clean, vibrant finish, with a lingering note of stone and herbal freshness.
Did You Know?
The Besson Family Vineyard, planted decades ago, is a key site for St. Georges Pinot Noir. Located near Gilroy on the western edge of the Santa Cruz Mountains, its vines are deeply rooted in history and the region’s terroir, contributing to the wine’s signature raciness and complexity.
Wine Pairing Ideas
- Herb-crusted salmon: The wine’s vibrant acidity and fresh fruit flavors complement the richness of salmon and its herbal crust.
- Duck breast with cherry reduction: The red berry notes of the wine enhance the sweet-savory balance of this dish.
- Mushroom risotto: The earthy tones of the wine pair beautifully with the umami-rich flavors of mushrooms.
- Roasted chicken with thyme and lemon: The herbal undertones of the wine complement the savory and citrusy flavors of the dish.