Poppy Santa Lucia Highlands Reserve Pinot Noir 2018

Poppy Santa Lucia Highlands Reserve Pinot Noir 2018 from Monterey County, California, offers a delightful expression of cool-climate Pinot Noir. The region's mild spring and cooler summer allowed the grapes to achieve optimal maturity, resulting in a wine with a harmonious balance of acidity and flavor. In the glass, it presents a deep color characteristic of Pinot Noir from this region. On the nose, vibrant aromas of cherry pie, macerated plum, and strawberries invite the senses. The palate is bright with red fruit flavors, including raspberry and spice, complemented by toasted French oak aromas. The wine is soft and silky through the middle, culminating in a juicy finish with proper acidity and a pleasant mouthfeel. With an alcohol content of 13.5%, this Pinot Noir is well-structured and food-friendly, making it a versatile choice for various pairings. Serve around 57°-61° F after a few minutes of aeration. Enjoy!

Poppy Santa Lucia Highlands Reserve Pinot Noir 2018’s bright acidity and silky texture make it a versatile companion for a wide array of dishes. Its cherry and berry flavors beautifully complement grilled salmon, roasted duck, and pork tenderloin, highlighting the savory notes of each dish. For vegetarians, try it alongside roasted mushroom risotto or a hearty vegetable tart to match the wine’s earthy undertones. Its balanced profile also plays nicely with creamy cheeses and charcuterie, making it a perfect choice for an elegant dinner or a cozy wine-and-cheese night. This Pinot Noir elevates any meal with its refined elegance and lively character.

Poppy Wines is a family-owned winery rooted in California’s Central Coast, specifically in Monterey County’s renowned Salinas Valley. Established in 2003 by the Silva family, who have farmed the region for over 45 years, Poppy Wines embodies a commitment to producing elegant and approachable wines that reflect the unique terroir of their vineyards.

The winery's name, "Poppy," was inspired by the vibrant wild poppies that flourish among their vines, symbolizing California's state flower and the beauty of the region.

Poppy Wines sources grapes from several estate-owned vineyards across key appellations, including the Santa Lucia Highlands, Arroyo Seco, and Paso Robles. Notable vineyards include the Poppy Hillside Vineyard in the Santa Lucia Highlands, established in 1972, and the Bella Vita Vineyard in Arroyo Seco, established in 2006.

The winery focuses on varietals such as Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Their wines are crafted using a blend of traditional winemaking techniques and modern technology, resulting in wines that are both expressive and accessible. By controlling grape sourcing and operating a state-of-the-art facility, Poppy Wines ensures consistency and quality in every bottle.

Through their dedication to showcasing the best of California's Central Coast, Poppy Wines offers a genuine taste of the region's rich viticultural heritage.