Wine Enthusiast Praises Lucia and
Iconic Vineyards
In recent Wine Enthusiast reviews, editor Matt Kettmann referenced the Garys’ and Soberanes Vineyard bottlings of Lucia by Pisoni in sharing a message long understood in the wine industry: “Iconic vineyards retain their glory . . .” We are grateful that Matt regards these wines and vineyards highly enough to share this profound concept with readers and wine aficionados alike.
In an ever-changing climate with considerable variation every vintage, the Pisoni family takes the long view in sustainability and preserving the quality of wine. It started with a core tenant that was handed down from Gary Pisoni himself, “The grapes make the wine. Wine is made in the vineyard!” True believers in this philosophy, the vineyards farmed by the Pisoni family are tended to with utmost care.
Efforts paid off with the 2022 vintage of Lucia by Pisoni wines, which earned high points in this recent review from Wine Enthusiast. Read below to see how methodic farming has led to a portfolio of intense and vibrant wines.
Iconic vineyards retain their glory, with a 97-point score for Lucia by Pisoni Garys’ Vineyard Pinot Noir and 96 points for Lucia by Pisoni Soberanes Vineyard Pinot Noir.Matt Kettmann
Lovely layers of black cherry compote and star anise ride waves of rich spice and dark fruit on the alluring and awesome nose of this bottling from what is arguably the appellation’s most iconic vineyard. Ample acidity and texture frame the dense but bright red fruit and baking spice flavors, leading into a clean, fresh and intense finish.
Deep and intense aromas of blackberry, purple flowers and ink-black hibiscus make for a fascinating nose on this bottling. The palate veers even into blueberry, with ample cocoa and mint spice, and enough acidity to stay fresh.
Lush aromas of black cherry, root beer and cola show a definite smoky element on the nose of this estate cuvée. The palate is rich with black cherry, black plum, nutmeg and star anise flavors, making for a rich combination that ends on a long vanilla note.
The nose on this bottling is incredibly well woven, layering subtle and elegant aromas of blueberry with cocoa, toast and dried mint. That expertly balanced array archives a rich fruit harmony on the palate as well, where the tannins and acidity work in a seamless pairing. Drink now–2042.
Lovely yellow flower aromas meet with lightly buttered white peach on the nose of this blend of the family’s estate properties. The palate lands with broad strokes of gardenia, coconut and more peach, as the acidity gives a brisk angle.
Clean aromas of Meyer lemon sorbet and delicate butter are enlivened by a hint of spearmint on the nose of this single-vineyard expression. The palate lands with a broad stroke, showing rich and bold flavors that are leveled by a tense frame and citrusy flashes of acidity.
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