Tolosa Apex Vineyard Pinot Noir Santa Lucia Highlands 2021

A Californian Pinot Noir at the top of its game

Looking for a Pinot Noir that combines elegance, depth and an almost Burgundian finesse – but with the sun-ripened generosity that only California can deliver? The 2021 Tolosa Apex Vineyard Pinot Noir from the Santa Lucia Highlands in Monterey County is a wine icon that thrills wine lovers and critics alike with its precision, freshness and intense purity. Wine Advocate awards the vintage with an impressive 95 points – and for good reason.

This wine is ideal for those looking for exclusive American Pinot Noir wines, high quality wines from Monterey County, or simply to discover some of the most exciting things California has to offer. Perfect for wine enthusiasts, collectors or as a gift for the discerning wine lover.

A vintage shaped by nature’s precision

2021 was a remarkable year in the Santa Lucia Highlands. A cool, elongated growing season, almost no rain – and two-thirds of the year’s rainfall fell in one dramatic 72-hour downpour. The heavy marine influence kept temperatures low and ripening slow, while September brought sun and warmth that ensured full development in both flavor and structure.
The result? Grapes with excellent phenolic ripeness, razor-sharp balance and naturally lower pH – the foundation of a great wine.

Vinification – craftsmanship in every drop

Tolosa works without compromise. The grapes were gently destemmed and underwent three days of cold maceration to extract color and aroma. Fermentation took place in open stainless steel tanks at both cool and warm temperatures to preserve freshness and enhance complexity.
The wine was then aged for 11 months in French oak barrels, 18% of which were new, giving structure and a subtle, elegant spice profile without overpowering the fruit.

Tasting notes – the character of the wine in detail

Nose: Fresh and aromatic with raspberries, sun-ripened cherries and tart-sweet cranberries. Behind the fruit, nuances of rose petals, dusty stone, black olives and lightly toasted barrels emerge.

A medium-bodied Pinot Noir with silky texture and a vibrant, red-fruited profile. The juicy cherry and raspberry notes are accompanied by red licorice, dried leaves and a hint of new leather. The final balance is sublime – fresh, elegant and persistent.

Tolosa – the story of terroir and precision

Tolosa Winery is located in the heart of Edna Valley, not far from the cool breezes of the Pacific Ocean. The philosophy is clear: to express terroir with maximum authenticity.
Tolosa combines modern winemaking with deep respect for the rhythms of nature – working both sustainably and with an extreme focus on soil quality. The Apex Vineyard, located in the Santa Lucia Highlands, is known for its granite and shale soils, cool nights and wind-blown hills that create grapes with intensity, acidity and finesse.
This isn’t just wine – it’s a story of landscape, climate and uncompromising craftsmanship.