Discover the rich elegance of J. Lohr Falcon's Perch Pinot Noir, a standout expression of Monterey County's cool climate. This 2022 vintage enchants with bright berry and watermelon aromas, seamlessly blended with clove and sagebrush undertones. On the palate, delicate tannins are accompanied by dried cherry, black tea, and a savory umami finish, punctuated by subtle spice. Crafted from sustainably farmed grapes, it embodies the winery's commitment to quality and terroir. Perfectly paired with dishes like roast salmon, mushroom risotto, or Spanish chorizo paella, this Pinot Noir delivers an unforgettable experience with every sip.
Process & Profile
The J. Lohr Falcon's Perch Pinot Noir is crafted from cool-climate vineyards in Monterey County, California, including the Santa Lucia Highlands and Arroyo Seco regions. These areas are celebrated for their ability to produce world-class Pinot Noir. The wine consists of 100% Pinot Noir grapes, with fermentation in both open-top and upright tanks to enhance varietal flavors. A mix of stainless steel (90%) and second- and third-fill French oak barrels (10%) is used for aging, striking a balance between preserving freshness and adding depth. The unique terroir, coupled with sustainable farming practices, ensures a wine that reflects Monterey's distinct microclimate and soils.
Tasting Notes
The Falcon's Perch Pinot Noir greets the eye with a lighter, translucent red hue. Aromatically, it captivates with notes of red cherry, ripe strawberry, candied raspberry, and a hint of spice from clove and sagebrush. On the palate, it offers a medium body with silky, delicate tannins and vibrant acidity. Expect juicy layers of pomegranate, watermelon, and mild oak, complemented by subtle accents of black tea, forest floor, and a touch of milk chocolate. The finish is fruit-forward with a savory umami edge, leaving a lasting impression of elegance and complexity.
What Makes It Special
The J. Lohr Falcon's Perch Pinot Noir stands out for its exceptional value and craftsmanship. Named after a falcon that made its home among the vines, this wine embodies a commitment to ecological harmony and sustainability. Its cool-climate origin lends a signature spicy strawberry character, while whole-cluster fermentation introduces unique peppery undertones. The meticulous blend of Dijon and Pommard clones enhances the wine's complexity. This is a Pinot Noir that bridges old-world finesse with new-world vibrancy—an accessible yet sophisticated choice for wine lovers.
How to Enjoy
This versatile Pinot Noir shines when paired with a variety of dishes. Its bright acidity and silky texture make it a natural match for:
- Grilled salmon or roast turkey with cranberry chutney
- Earthy mushroom-based dishes like risotto or pasta
- Spanish chorizo or paella
- Pork, lamb, or poultry with herbaceous sauces
For optimal enjoyment, serve slightly chilled at 55–60°F. With an aging potential of several years, the wine's structure and flavors will continue to evolve, making it an excellent candidate for your cellar or an immediate delight for weeknight sipping.
Indulge in the J. Lohr Falcon's Perch Pinot Noir—a graceful expression of California Pinot Noir that effortlessly combines quality, affordability, and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does J. Lohr Falcon's Perch Pinot Noir taste like?
This wine exhibits bright fruit flavors such as strawberry, raspberry, and watermelon, complemented by subtle notes of clove, sagebrush, and a hint of spice. The mid-palate features delicate tannins with a finish that highlights dried cherry, black tea, and umami characteristics.
What food pairings work best with J. Lohr Falcon's Perch Pinot Noir?
This Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with Spanish chorizo, paella, mushroom dishes, roast salmon, and even spiced pork dishes or pasta with red or white sauces.
Where is J. Lohr Falcon's Perch Pinot Noir produced?
This wine is crafted from cool-climate grapes grown in the Arroyo Seco and Santa Lucia Highlands regions of Monterey County, California—areas renowned for producing exceptional Pinot Noir.
Is J. Lohr Falcon's Perch Pinot Noir dry or sweet?
This wine is dry, with its fruity flavors derived from the natural acidity and fermentation process rather than residual sweetness.
What is the alcohol content of this wine?
J. Lohr Falcon's Perch Pinot Noir has an alcohol content of 13.9%, which is typical for Pinot Noir from California's warmer regions.
How should I serve this wine?
It is recommended to serve this Pinot Noir slightly chilled, between cellar temperature (55°F) and room temperature (60-65°F). Allowing the wine to breathe for a short time before serving can enhance its flavors and aromas.
How long can I store J. Lohr Falcon's Perch Pinot Noir?
This wine is best enjoyed within five to six years of release. Aging will further soften its tannins and develop complex bottle bouquet aromas.
What makes this wine unique?
The J. Lohr Falcon's Perch Pinot Noir stands out for its balance of vibrant fruit, earthy undertones, and a hint of spice, showcasing the hallmark characteristics of cool-climate Pinot Noir from Monterey County.
How is J. Lohr Falcon's Perch Pinot Noir aged?
Approximately 90% of the wine is aged in stainless steel tanks to retain freshness, while 10% is aged in second- and third-fill French oak barrels to add subtle spice and complexity.
Why is it called Falcon's Perch?
The wine is named after a small falcon that perched on a lone pine tree amidst the vineyard, serving as a natural protector of the grapes by keeping pests in check. This highlights the winery's commitment to sustainability and balance within the ecosystem.