Appellation: The Santa Lucia Highlands is part of the western benchland that borders the Salinas Valley. This valley runs roughly north to south and opens at the north directly onto the Monterey Bay. As summer sun heats the valley, the rising air draws the foggy ocean sea breezes towards the southern end. This creates a cooling blanket over the vineyards and adds to the length of the growing season. This extra hang-time intensifies the expression of deep fruit flavors. Another feature of this benchland is deep soil that allows deep root penetration and maximizes the influence of the soil and its read more...minerals. Nose: A substantial wine of foreword-fruit characteristics of black cherries, ripe plums, nutmeg and hints of citrus as well as floral aromas reminiscent of rose petals. Palate: Full body with upfront fruits representing ripe plums, black cherries and nutmeg. Ready to drink now, would benefit from two to five years of cellaring age. (hide)