Growing Conditions
2012 was a hot and dry year. The massive heat wave that struck in late July expedited ripening. Our harvest was a few weeks earlier than normal. The wines became big and bold and bursting with fruit.
- Rosewynn Vineyard – Petite Sirah
- Hidden Oak Vineyard – Petite Sirah
- Hearthstone Vineyard – Grenache and Syrah
Harvest
There were 4 lots of grapes which were harvested from 9/26 – 10/18 with Brix ranging from 22.5° - 28.7°.
Winemaking
This wine was created to be elegant and smooth, yet full bodied and age-able. There should be nothing overpowering or out of balance.
The grapes were cold-soaked for an average of 4 days before fermentation was initiated. Viognier was added for co-fermentation to some lots. A variety of yeasts were used (including multiple native yeast fermentations). The fermentations lasted an average of 10 days. 1 lot was left for extended maceration for 2 weeks post-fermentation. The wine was then selectively pressed off (higher pressings were separated and/or discarded).
Aging
All wine was aged in barrel for 14 – 15 months. The wine was aged in separate small, individual lots and then blended after 13 months. Oak was both French and American, with the majority being French.
