We tend to think of European wines as being “Old” and Californian wines as being “New”. Occasionally, of course, we crash this stereotype by writing stories about old legends from Napa that produced brilliant Cabernets in the 1960s and 1970s that are still delicious today.

Today, though, we want to poke at this stereotype from a different angle: central coast Pinot Noir. No, this was not a category of wine that sprung up spontaneously in the wake of Sideways, but has its own roots that have now had an opportunity to evolve with passing generations.

In the case of Talley farm, there have, in fact, already been four such generations, as this is a farm that was founded just after World War II. What they offer the world is this great insight: the Arroyo Grande Valley is an ideal place to grow Pinot Noir.

Like other top wine areas of California, the key to the terroir here is the Pacific Ocean, which offers cold winds to an area that would otherwise be quite hot. The valley also benefits from fog, protecting grapes from the hot sun – a bit like what you get in parts of the Sonoma Coast. This climatic effect in Arroyo Grande is quite dramatic, such that you often see daytime/night time temperature swings of 30 degrees. Pinot Noir loves this: the daytime sunshine ripens its grapes, while the cool nights help preserve those vital acidities.

It’s more than just the weather. It's the soils of clay, loam, and volcanic and marine sedimentary elements. It’s the angles of the slopes and the varying altitudes. Put it all together and you’re in Pinot Noir heaven.

Having discovered this Valley, the Talleys went on to become an important part of America’s wine tapestry. Their wines have been served at the White House. They have won important Judgment of Paris-like competitions. They are real deal, and really delicious, American wines.

Today, we are pleased to offer their Pinot Noir blend from some of the original vineyards that they planted in the Valley. It’s a 2021 made in a classical, restrained style that will appeal to lovers of both Burgundy and Californian Pinots. It is the product of this incredible valley, and of the important historical role that the Talleys have played in our wine culture.

Talley Vineyards San Luis Obispo Coast Pinot Noir Estate 2021 - $39.99
"The 2021 Pinot Noir Estate is a very pretty, sensual wine. Crushed red cherry fruit, kirsch, mint, blood orange, spice and dried flowers all grace this silky, open-knit Pinot. The translucent, soft style is quite appealing. 91 pts" -Antonio Galloni,Vinous