I don't think you know how hard it is to find balanced, fresh, and 93-point California Pinot Noir for less than $25. The 2023 Joyce Wine Co. Submarine Canyon Pinot Noir checks all of those boxes, and I love this little wine.
It's just 12.4% alcohol, and it offers up delicate and pretty notes of red berries, hibiscus tea, smoky herbs, and a nice earthy, umami nuance on the finish. I totally get why Wine Enthusiast rated this 93 points, as this Burgundy-inspired effort is a ton of wine for the money.
The Submarine Canyon Vineyard is in the Arroyo Seco AVA in Monterey County, one of the coolest growing regions in California. Foggy winds roll off Monterey Bay, giving the vines a long, slow growing season that allows the grapes to build flavor without getting overripe. That's a big part of this wine's success.
Fermented with 15% whole clusters and aged in older, neutral French oak barrels, this is about as pure as California Pinot Noir gets. I love it, and for those looking for a lighter red to drink in these dog days of summer, look no further.
Bravo to Russell Joyce and his team for crafting this beautiful, cool-climate Pinot Noir.
I think I'll be enjoying a bottle with some cedar plank salmon real soon. You should too!
Josh Spurling
Owner, Operator, Wine Monger
Table Wine Asheville
