Tudor 2006 Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands

Vintage Notes:
Many Central Coast producers sacrificed their 2006 vintages in the market place - as these wines came into their own in the midst of a recession that turned buyers into price-conscious consumers. In addition, 2006 is considere a "good" vintage that is squeezed in between the "great" vintages of 2005 and 2007. Of course, even in off years, there are some wonderful exceptions for those willing to look. Or taste, as the case may be.

This wine is such an example. Dan Tudor has a knack with Monterey county fruit from the Santa Lucia Highlands, and this is the fourth consecutive vintage I've bought from him. I give wines from Santa Lucia Highlands mixed reviews, as they vary from elegant to massive and muscular. But the area is worth watching, and is home to some of California's priciest vineyards, as you can see on this excellent map from the SLH vintners Association.

Tasting Notes:

1. Nose: Look for an elegant nose of cherry and red berries and cassis followed by an enticing dip into the winemaker's aromatic spice cabinet.
2. Palate:One sip and you can see why this winery is on the rise - the wine's solid structure provides a steady foundation from which hangs its ample fruit, which is balanced by just enough oak to be pleseant but not over-powering. A wonderful, long finish.

The Santa Lucia Highlands
This stretch of land is perhaps the best known growing area in Monterey county. Located on the West side of Hwy 101 (and clearly visible, if you know where to look), this growing area is home to such well-known wines as Pisoni, and Roar, as well as dozens of other great-but-lesser-knowns. Wines from this region tend to be big. Winemaker Dan Tudor has harnessed the best of this ripe fruit without succumbing to the caricatured nature of some of this region's bigger examples.

But it's no wallflower, either. Certainly capable of standing on its own during the cocktail hour, it is also very well-mannered at the table, proving an adept pairing partner with most medium-bodied dishes.

Cheers!
Dave the Wine Merchant
Dave@DaveTheWineMerchant.com