Bernardus Pinot Noir Santa Lucia Highlands is a distinguished California red wine sourced from select small-farm highland vineyards within the Santa Lucia Highlands AVA of western Monterey County. This cool-climate growing region benefits from warm morning sunshine and brisk afternoon breezes, creating an extended growing season ideally suited to producing ripe, complex Pinot Noir with excellent natural acidity.

The fruit is hand-picked at optimal ripeness and sorted and vinified in small batches, then aged in French oak barrels. The result is a wine with a royal garnet color and inviting aromas of rich plum, cedar wood, clove, and cola. On the palate, lively flavors of black cherry and cranberry are accented by notes of spice, vanilla, and a touch of earthiness reminiscent of Burgundian-style Pinot Noir. The 2021 vintage received 92 points from Wine Enthusiast for its brooding aromas of berry and intense plum, with opulent ripeness and a spiced dark fruit core. A versatile food wine that pairs well with beef stew, roasted duck, salmon, and mushroom-based dishes.