Big, Bold Wines from an Historic Vineyard

“As I like to say, my Pinot is bigger than your Pinot!”  This is from Fintan du Fresne, winemaker for Chamisal Vineyards, who says it with a smile and charming New Zealand accent.  “We are blessed with a unique vineyard that produces incredibly bold and intense wines.”  It’s no joke though – the estate-grown Pinot Noir currently being poured in their charming Edna Valley tasting room is an opaque ruby that looks more like a Syrah, with a powerful bouquet and complex mélange of flavors.  Their 2004 Califa Pinot, a reserve bottling crafted from the best barrels of the vintage, was rated 96 points by the Wine Spectator, the highest rating ever given to a Central Coast Pinot Noir.

“It’s all up to the special combination of soils and climate,” Fin explains as he sniffs his glass. “We have a mix of limestone and rich clay that complements the cool, coastal climate courtesy of the Pacific Ocean. And, daily fog off the bay keeps temperatures low, so our grapes get a long hang-time and develop really intense flavors.”

This 80-acre estate has long been noted for its distinctive characteristics. Planted in 1973 by pioneering winemaker Norman Goss, it was the first vineyard in Edna Valley and has been amazing the palates of wine lovers since. When purchased by the next owners in the early ’90s, the vineyard was meticulously replanted to feature a diverse clonal selection that includes 10 clones of Pinot Noir and 11 of Chardonnay, along with Syrah, Grenache and Pinot Gris. The newest bottling to the line up, Monologue, highlights the most exceptional Pinot clone of the vintage.  

The wine is the main attraction here but not the only one. The schedule of events for wine club members and others, including the upcoming Lobster Fest and Farm Burger Bash, are not to be missed. The relaxing tasting room boasts a spacious patio that’s perfect for lounging and enjoying your wine tasting – you may find you never bother moving on!

Stop in and experience it yourself. They’re located at 7525 Orcutt Road in San Luis Obispo and are open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.  Visit the website at www.chamisalvineyards.com for more information on tasting and upcoming events.