Only tiny amounts of this sensational Pinot Noir were produced by owner/winemaker Deborah Hall. The picturesque Gypsy Canyon property (in the same appellation as the famous Sea Smoke vineyards) has an exceptionally cool microclimate compared to other vineyard sites in the Sta. Rita Hills AVA. This allows the berries to ripen with stable sugar levels and develop complex full-bodied fruit character, producing a true Burgundian-style Pinot Noir. The vineyard is tended by hand to create balance vine by vine. The winemaking also is done by hand in small lots with no filtration, which allows honest expression of the Santa Rita Hills terroir. Gypsy Canyon Pinot Noir has become a Central Coast cult wine and is in great demand because of such limited availability and the high quality of the wine.

We have told you of the historic packaging in previous emails and that remains the same for the terrific 2005 vintage. Deborah has lovingly signed each and every one of the 876 bottles produced.

Deborah stopped by the store earlier this week and offered us a sample. (We knew she was coming and had our glasses in hand all morning in anticipation.) What a fantastic example of Sta. Rita Hills! It has the fruit and power you have come to expect from that appellation without sacrificing the delicacy, nuance and spiciness that true lovers of Pinot Noir seek. Deborah walks that fine line like it is a super highway and not a razor's edge. This is a wine that will show well right now and continue to improve in the cellar.