The 2022 Pisoni Estate Pinot Noir is a highly regarded wine from the Santa Lucia Highlands in Monterey, California. Crafted by the Pisoni family, this Pinot Noir exhibits characteristics that have drawn considerable attention from wine critics.
The Wine Independent awarded this Pinot Noir a score of 94, describing it as having a "medium ruby-purple color" with "flamboyant notes of raspberry preserves, ripe black cherries, and blackberries." The review highlights the wine's complex bouquet, enhanced by "touches of violets and cardamom." The palate is described as medium-bodied, "packed with intense red and black fruit layers supported by soft tannins and well-knit freshness," finishing "long and fragrant" (The Wine Independent, 2/21/2024).
Jeb Dunnuck gave the 2022 Pisoni Estate Pinot Noir an excellent score of 97, noting its "deeper ruby/garnet hue" and a "stunning nose of black raspberries, darker strawberries, spring flowers, and baking spices." Dunnuck praises its "medium to full-bodied richness," highlighting a "pure, layered mouthfeel, ripe tannins, and a gorgeous finish." He notes that despite the challenges of a significant Labor Day heatwave, the wine "does everything right." Dunnuck believes it will "evolve gracefully over the coming 10-15 years" (Jeb Dunnuck, 8/15/2024).
Vinous also provided a strong review, scoring the wine 95. The review notes that the 2022 vintage is a selection of the best barrels in the cellar, resulting in a wine with "even more depth and weight than usual" due to reduced yields. The tasting notes mention "sweet black licorice, crushed rocks, and macerated cherry/berry fruit," lifted by "fresh, citrus-like acidity." The wine is described as having "soft, caressing textures and unmistakable brawn," embodying "complexity, class, and refinement." Vinous suggests that a year or two in the cellar could help untangle its many layers (Vinous, 8/1/2024).
Overall, the 2022 Pisoni Estate Pinot Noir is a well-crafted wine that showcases the expertise of its producers and the unique terroir of the Santa Lucia Highlands. Its rich, layered profile and potential for aging make it a standout choice for Pinot Noir enthusiasts.