Nose
Aromas of Blueberry, White Pepper, Coffee, Stone and hints of Fig and Rosemary Flowers
Palate
Flavors of Blueberries, White Pepper, Cardamom, Allspice, White Raspberry, Espresso, Leather and Cacao with hints of Flint, Tar and Flowering Rosemary
Growing Conditions
2011 was a challenging year for winemaking. The late rains, long cool growing season and early frosts created an atypical climate for California. The wines became softer and lighter, yet were picked much later than normal.
- Rosewynn Vineyard – Petite Sirah
- Solana Farms – Petite Sirah
- Hearthstone Vineyard – Grenache and Syrah
Harvest
There were 4 lots of grapes which were harvested from 10/17 – 11/8 with Brix ranging from 23.5° - 29.1°.
Bottling
1/21/2013
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. 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 1 week 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.
