Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Wilfred Wong of Wine.com
COMMENTARY: Why doesn't the world love Durif? Perhaps it is because the grape variety is barely known (except "geeks" in the wine biz). The 2018 Caymus-Suisun Grand Durif is powerful and lasting on the palate. TASTING NOTES: This wine is not shy as it surrounds the palate with ripe, grapey fruits and wood. Enjoy it with wood-smoked short ribs, and bring a good appetite to the table. (Tasted: January 29, 2021, San Francisco, CA)
With its deep color, firm tannins and bold flavors, there is nothing petite about Petite Sirah. The variety, originally known as Durif in the Rhône, took on its more popular moniker after being imported to California in the early 1880s. Quintessentially recognized today as a grape of the Golden State, Petite Sirah works well blended with Zinfandel and finds success as a single varietal wine in the state’s warmer districts. Somm Secret—Petite Sirah is not a smaller version of Syrah but it is an offspring of Syrah and the now nearly extinct French Alpine variety called Peloursin.
An off the beaten path wine country destination, Suisun Valley is just east of Napa Valley in the California Coast Ranges. The valley boasts plentiful agricultural products as well as wine.