Fall 2024 Newsletter
 

Exploring Time and Place: A Reflection on Vineyards and Life

In the undulating landscape of the Santa Lucia Highlands, the rhythm of the growing season shapes our wines. From our inaugural harvest in 2001 to the vibrant tapestry of vintages that followed, each bottle of ROAR tells a story of our land's bounty and the seasons of life that are inextricably intertwined. We find inspiration in this dance of time, place, and people. 

ROAR has become integral to the celebrations and milestones of our valued patrons. In the personal stories you share with us, wine has woven itself into the fabric of life's most memorable moments for you as well. We are honored that ROAR has been a companion in these cherished memories, adding a layer of depth and flavor to each celebration.

Vintage Memories

Vintage Memories

Our first vintage in 2001 was a monumental year for the Franscioni Family. This marked a new chapter in our family’s farming legacy. Unlike lemons and vegetable row crops, grapevines produce a lasting result of the harvest that cellars for years and bears our family’s name. Every harvest carries a special significance, marking important milestones and shaping our family's story in new and profound ways.

In 2006, Wine Critic Robert Parker held a blind tasting in Napa Valley with a selection of California and Burgundy Pinot Noirs and a full house full of guests. The 2004 ROAR Garys’ Vineyard Pinot Noir earned the title of favorite wine by Parker and the crowd. “That was one of my biggest moments to win that thing,” Gary recalls. “It made its mark for ROAR as ‘Now you’re a real brand’ since you are not just competing with California, but also Burgundy. It was an honor just to be there, it was unbelievable to win it.” ​​That moment with Robert Parker will stick with us forever.

Personal connections also find their place among the vines and cellar. Adam's encounter with Tamara during the bustling 2014 harvest blossomed into a love story that continues to inspire us. Their union, celebrated with ROAR,, underscores how each vintage shapes life's most cherished moments. They enjoyed 2014 ROAR Rosella's Vineyard Pinot Noir for their wedding day, a vintage that embodied the intertwining of their passion for wine and their enduring love.

Most recently, at Nick and Ali's wedding, we toasted with the 2020 ROAR Clos Pepe Vineyard Pinot Noir, honoring their journey and our enduring partnership with the Hall family. Despite the challenges of that vintage in the Santa Lucia Highlands, our wines served as a testament to resilience and shared joy. Nick recalls, “Between the pandemic and local wildfires, it was a strange year, but it was also a life-changing moment to meet my forever partner.”

As we continue crafting each bottle with care and dedication, we invite you to share your ROAR moments. What memories do you hold dear, entwined with a sip of our wine? We look forward to hearing your stories and raising a glass together to celebrate the special moments and the enduring connections.