Winemaker Notes
A single sheet of microfiche linking an off-limits stretch of the Nevada desert to RFID chips, fluoridated water and a grassy knoll in Dallas. No digital footprint. Instead, this lip smacking wine reveals secret notes of dark cherry layered with cola, cocoa powder and pie spice. Its contents must be poured, sipped and memorized. A unique blend of Petite Sirah, Syrah, Merlot, Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon. Is is possible the illuminati opened the most hallowed New World wine country slopes to capture these flavors and textures in the glass? We think it so. It must be so.
Blend: 32% Petite Sirah, 22% Syrah, 18% Merlot, 16% Zinfandel, 12% Caberrnet Sauvignon
Critical Acclaim
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We embrace individuals and events that move and shape the trajectory of human history. The art on each bottle presents a graphic expression of consequence against the landscape of the status quo.
California is a winemaking colossus; by itself it is the fourth largest producer in the world. Red wine accounts for 56% of the total by volume, and red grapes 63% of total acres planted. In addition, a number of California red wines are heralded as being among the most prestigious and sought-after wines in the world.
While the state’s incredibly diverse geography, soils and microclimates allow for a wide array of styles, the key factor unifying California red wine is the abundance of sunshine and a long, consistent growing season. This leads to well-developed fruit marked both by impressive ripeness and balancing acidity.
The state’s most famous red wine region, of course, is Napa Valley, where Cabernet Sauvignon reigns as king. But California boasts a wealth of other impressive appellations. The much larger and climatically varied Sonoma County also produces world class California Cabernet, along with wonderful examples of California Pinot Noir and Zinfandel.
Fine versions of Cabernet and Zinfandel hail from Paso Robles as well, which is also gaining fame with Rhone varietals like Syrah and Grenache. As for Pinot Noir, terrific examples can be found from AVA’s such as Anderson Valley, Carneros, Santa Lucia Highlands and Sta. Rita Hills. Wineries in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo Counties are making wonderful Syrahs, and the Sierra Foothill appellations are proving to be an experimental hotbed, with Italian and Spanish varietals employed to great effect.
This of course is a mere sketch. The subject of California red wine is as deep and broad as an ocean, and absolutely a joy to explore!