Winemaker Notes
An alluring inky-purple achievement, the 2014 Abstract is replete with a vivid nose of red and black stone fruits, candied cherry, cassis, dried floral notes, and sweet oak accents. Fleshy and spirited, the wine evolves into a very complex flavor profile of dark berry preserve, raspberry jam, Asian spices, mocha, chaparral, and a hint of crushed rock minerality. An underlying acidity leads to a graceful and fine tannin chain that is seemingly endless.
Abstract is a blend of Napa, Sonoma, and Mendocino Grenache, Petite Sirah, and Syrah primarily from hillside vineyards.
About the Label
The label was inspired by a collage displayed in the living room of a designer in Milan. The winemaker spent years collecting the imagery and individually piecing the snips together. Nearly four years later, his original work of art was finally completed.
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!