Nose
Aromas of gravel, just-crushed peppercorns, and blueberries.
Palate
Surprisingly plush with soft tannins and the suggestion of smoked meat in the lower register; peppery minty and delicately floral in the upper range, this wine clocks in at a scant 12% potential alcohol.
Harvest
2011 was a cool and challenging year that nonetheless (or indeed perhaps because of the Great Coolth) yielded perhaps the most exciting Bien Nacido in recent memory. (Before the climate changed so dramatically in the Santa Maria Valley, ultra-cool vintages were quite routine.)
Food Pairing
Fried Brussel sprout chips, pork meatballs with cherry chutney, pork belly.
