Winemaker Notes
Extremely saturated, glowing, shimmering purple-black robe. The nose has fresh blackberry and black plums, road tar, blueberry jam, dark chocolate, black pepper and spice notes. In the mouth, a burst of fresh acidity similar to black currants, blackberries and cherries emerges first, then loads of smooth, black cherry, bittersweet chocolate, tobacco, blackberry liqueur, crème de cassis, and a powerful vein of minerals; wet stones, creek-bed, sea salt, white chalk, oyster shell. There’s a small whiff of herb like tarragon and anise. The finish is lip-smacking and crisp, with well integrated tannins and forward acidity.
One of the most food-friendly Petite Sirah you’re going to come across, and easily drinkable and enjoyable in its youth. The striking minerality and bright acid makes this an awesome accompaniment to most grilled meats, grilled vegetables, and one of the rare Petite Sirah you find to match a nice salmon with herbs, salt and pepper. It is impossible not to finish your glass!
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!