The Fransconi family is one of California’s most important families in regard to winemaking. The fourth-generation farmers have ties to our great state since 1889 when Silvio Fransconi migrated here from Switzerland and started a dairy just south of Salinas. Fast Forward 107 years to 1996. Gary Fransconi, Silvio’s Grandson, is now at the helm of the family farming business and has recognized the potential of growing world-class wine grapes on his family’s established property. Out of this ‘coming to faith moment’ the world-renowned Rosella’s Vineyard was planted. Using his long-standing relationship with Pinot Noir icon Gary Pisoni, whom Fransconi co-owns Gary’s Vineyard with, Roar was established initially making only two wines in their inaugural vintage in 2001. A Rosella’s Vineyard Pinot Noir and a Gary’s Vineyard Pinot Noir. The rest, as they say, is history. Roar is now one of the finest producers across the United States with world-renowned status due to its limited access and cellar aging potential.

As many know, David and I are lovers of Pinot. We are constantly demanding the best of the best in our store. Through this passion of finding the best-boutiquey Pinots California has to offer, we have proudly sold Roar for many vintages. One of the few wine retailers to do so. We have just received the first two wines of their latest vintage, with a few more to come later. Below are the initial offerings with some verbiage on the wines, as we get more of their offerings circle back to this post to see what others have made their way in.

2022 Roar Gary’s Vineyard Pinot Noir: $79.99

94 Points: Lisa Perrotti-Brown’s Wine Independent

“Medium ruby-purple in color, the 2022 Garys’ Vineyard Pinot Noir comes bounding out with eager-to-please scents of black cherry compote and juicy blackberries followed by hints of spice cake, fallen leaves, and tilled soil. The medium to full-bodied palate is jam packed with black and red berry layers framed by velvety tannins and just enough freshness, finishing long and spicy.”

2021 Roar Soberanes Vineyard Pinot Noir: $79.99

94 Points: Antonio Galloni’s Vinous

            “If seeking out a flavorful, attention-commanding Pinot Noir, this is a satisfying choice, starting with baked black cherry and a spice rack of aromas on the nose. There’s a chalky texture that wraps around the undeniably ripe flavors of black cherry, black plum and rich spices on the unctuous palate.”