In any field, there are always trendsetters: individuals who establish new styles, behaviours, and ideas. These innovators introduce original concepts that capture the public's attention and generate significant interest. Their work serves as a benchmark, inspiring others to follow their lead and adopt new ways of thinking and creating. A prominent example is Mikey and Gina Giugni, professional winemakers and partners in life, who are behind Scar of the Sea. This winery, founded in 2012 in San Luis Obispo, on the Central Coast of California, focuses on collaborating with farmers who play a crucial role in the agriculture of the future and in crafting wines with minimal intervention. Their commitment to sustainability and quality reflects a new era in viticulture, where respect for the land and the authenticity of the product are paramount.
Thus was born Scar of the Sea Bassi Vineyard Pinot Noir. A single-varietal pinot noir from 22-year-old vines located on the slopes of the Ávila Valley, just 1 mile from the beach. Organic farming is practiced with biodynamic treatments, and the harvest is done manually at the optimal moment of ripeness. In the winery, the grapes, with 70% whole clusters, ferment with native yeasts and then the wine ages for 10 months in neutral French oak barrels. Finally, it is bottled without fining or filtration and with a minimal amount of sulphur.
As a result, Scar of the Sea Bassi Vineyard Pinot Noir presents itself as a unique snapshot of the California coast that undoubtedly sets trends. As Mikey himself says, "Our wines are made with the intention of telling a story of where they come from, the people who grow them, and reflect each harvest under the California sun."