2021 Saxon-Brown Pinot Noir Garys' Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands

• "Ripe, Structured, Brilliant Wine" ~95 James Suckling
• "Gorgeous Wine. Will Drink Well Over the Next 10-12yrs" ~95 JD
• "One of the Most Famous Vineyards in California" ~WS
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About the Wine

The 2021 Saxon-Brown Pinot Noir from Garys' Vineyard in the Santa Lucia Highlands is a perfect example of how great wines begin with exceptional vineyards. Jeff Gaffner, a winemaker who has built his career on producing high-quality, site-specific wines, has created a Pinot Noir that speaks to the heart of this renowned vineyard.

Garys’ Vineyard, planted in 1997 by Gary Franscioni and Gary Pisoni, is widely considered one of the most celebrated sites in California for Pinot Noir. Located in the Santa Lucia Highlands of Monterey County, this vineyard enjoys cool breezes from the nearby Monterey Bay, which slow the ripening process and allow the grapes to develop complex, vibrant flavors. The vineyard’s soils—well-drained and rich in minerals—are perfect for producing Pinot Noir that is rich in both flavor and structure.

In fact, Wine Spectator has hailed Garys' Vineyard as "one of the most famous vineyards in California," a testament to the remarkable quality it consistently produces. This Pinot Noir is a true reflection of the unique terroir here.

Jeff Gaffner, owner, and winemaker behind Saxon-Brown, has always believed in crafting wines that truly reflect their vineyard sources. His style is restrained—he doesn’t overpower the wine with excessive oak or over-extraction. Instead, he lets the site speak for itself, with minimal intervention in the cellar. It’s a philosophy that has earned him a loyal following of wine lovers and critics alike.

The 2021 Garys' Vineyard Pinot Noir is a prime example of Gaffner’s approach. By carefully balancing fruit extraction and acidity, he’s created a wine that’s elegant, refined, and capable of aging beautifully. This wine isn’t just about its bright, fresh fruit now—it has the structure to evolve over time, developing even more complexity and nuance.

This Pinot Noir’s bright acidity and fruit-forward profile make it a versatile pairing partner for a variety of dishes. It works wonderfully with grilled salmon, roast duck, or even a charcuterie board with creamy cheeses and smoked meats. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, it pairs beautifully with mushroom risotto or a simple grilled chicken with herbs.

Limited Availability – This wine is in high demand, so don’t wait too long to add it to your collection. Whether you’re enjoying it now or tucking it away for the future, the 2021 Saxon-Brown Pinot Noir Garys’ Vineyard is a wine you’ll be happy to have on hand.

Tasting Notes

100% Pinot Noir. The 2021 Saxon-Brown Garys’ Vineyard Pinot Noir is a wine with a story to tell. It opens with aromas of ripe blueberries, black cherries, and raspberries, along with notes of brown spice and sweet tobacco. On the palate, the wine is rich and mouthfilling, but with a freshness that keeps it balanced. Bright acidity gives the wine a lift, while the finish is long and satisfying, with lingering berry flavors that make you want to go back for more.

Reviews

This ripe, structured, brilliant wine is laced with significant tannins and fresh-tasting acidity that support tart cherries, black cherries, cranberries and pomegranates on the palate. So vivid, lively and deep. A dramatic difference from winemaker Jeff Gaffner’s Sonoma Coast offerings. Full-bodied and age-worthy. Best from 2028. ~95 James Suckling

Pouring a ruby red color, the 2021 Pinot Noir Garys' Vineyard is lifted with cardamom spice, bright red berries, and a hint of violets. Medium-bodied and bright, it’s vibrant and mouthwatering, with a clean, vertical feel. This gorgeous wine is going to drink well over the next 10 -12 years. ~95 Jeb Dunnuck

A fresh, pure style, whose damson plum and bitter cherry notes offer a racy but still generous feel. Ends with light sandalwood and red tea hints on the lacy finish. Drink now through 2027. 194 cases made. ~91 Wine Spectator

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