2018 Kingston Family Vineyards "Tobiano" Pinot Noir Casablanca Valley

Professional Reviews

Staff Reviews

KW

Kirk Walker

Kirk Walker

What a beautiful Pinot, and that is not an adjective that normally gets attached to a Pinot at this price point. This is a medium light bodied wine coming in at 12%abv. The aromatics are bright, with mixed berries, a touch of spice and hint of crushed herbs. What tannins it has are very fine. This is lighter wine with surprising persistence.

Notes

Kingston Family Vineyards are located in the far western portion of the Casablanca Valley. In the 1990’s, inspired by the man, the wines, the work and vineyards of Gary Pisoni, they designed and planted their first vineyards in the late 1990’s. They specialize in Pinot Noir, Syrah, and Sauvignon Blanc. The vines are located in the far western portion of the Valley where the soils are red clay and decomposed granite. The coastal climate and poor soils are ideal for their cool climate varietals. In 2016 the winery started to convert to organics and they were certified in 2020. In the winery they are using less new oak than previous vintages as well as concrete tanks. Tobiano is sourced from multiple sites within their vineyards. It is an aromatic and refreshing Pinot Noir. Medium bodied and juicy on the palate with an exuberant mix of berries and red fruits, with on the palate. With an ABV at 12% this wine harkens back to Pinots of old, which is fitting with their traditionally inspired winemaking.