Winemaker Notes
This dark and inky beautiful wine leads to a bouquet of black tea, dried rosemary, and a hint of menthol. The palate is a balance of power. Full bodied, luscious black fruits, concentrated layers of mocha, toasty oak, pipe tobacco, while pepper and earth add complexity to this classic Petite Sirah that finishes long and smooth.
Professional Ratings
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Wine Enthusiast
This dark and inky beautiful wine leads to a bouquet of black tea, dried rosemary, and a hint of
menthol. Full bodied, luscious black fruits, concentrated layers of mocha, toasty oak, pipe tobacco,
while pepper and earth add complexity to this classic Petite Sirah.
-
Wilfred Wong of Wine.com
COMMENTARY: The 2015 Chacewater Petite Sirah delivers palate satisfaction and a sustained finish. TASTING NOTES: This wine shows up with black fruit and licorice in its aromas and flavors. Enjoy it with a savory stew. (Tasted: October 25, 2020, 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.
Located within the greater Clear Lake appellation, the Red Hills AVA is perhaps the hottest spot right now in Lake County for new Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards. Recognizing the potential of its volcanic and obsidian heavy soils, many respected growers are flocking to the area. Andy Beckstoffer, a leader in escalating the quality and recognition of Napa Valley, has already invested heavily in the area.