Brian Loring has developed a cult following with wine lovers for his vineyard designated Pinot Noir. After starting making wines on a shoestring budget in a rented warehouse while working a day job, Loring has grown to produce a series of Pinot’s in small quantities. Although he still works his day job as a software engineer, I’d be surprised if he didn’t have a winery and reach his goal of making 3,000 cases within a year or two.

Garys’ Vineyard, where the fruit was grown for this wine, is located in the Santa Lucia Highlands AVA near Monterey, California. Owned by Gary Franscioni and Gary Pisoni, their 50 acres are planted to Pinot Noir and Syrah. Almost 20 wineries buy fruit from the Garys’ including Pinot superstars Siduri and Kosta Browne.

I’ve never had the chance to taste any Loring Pinot’s until this past holiday season when this bottle was opened. I’m very much looking forward to tasting more as this first wine is right up my alley; massive fruit, good acidity and an elegance not often found in California Pinot Noir.

Loring Wine Company, Pinot Noir, “Garys’ Vineyard”, Santa Lucia Highlands 2005 ($48) - Bright ruby in color with a very aromatic nose of black cherry, raspberry and cinnamon. Forward cherry fruit flavors and good acidity with some spice and nicely integrated tannins. A delicious, elegant Pinot that should continue to please for the next couple of years. If you are lucky enough to see some for sale; buy it.

13.8 ABV
Stelvin closure
Score: 93

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