Falcon’s Perch

Monterey County received abundant winter rainfall December 2022 through March 2023; the much-needed rainstorms rejuvenated the soil after several years of drought-like conditions. Daytime temperatures were exceptionally cool spring through summer - forcing clusters to mature slowly. Steady weather prevailed throughout the early fall, allowing us to pick berries at peak phenological ripeness with outstanding color and flavor development. We began harvesting Pinot Noir in the Arroyo Seco on October 3rd and continued picking almost every morning through October 17th. About 15% of the fruit was fermented whole cluster, with stems, to add peppery, spicy notes that accent the rich strawberry flavors that our Monterey- grown Pinot Noir is prized for.