Nose

red fruits, violets, and black currant.

Palate

earthy spice, sage and mushroom, blackberry and cherry, dusty dark chocolate.

Growing Conditions

Much of our winter rain came late, with almost 12 inches in March alone. With a very warm spring, the vines were running about three weeks early heading into the summer months. July and August were cooler than average, with foggy mornings, mild sunny afternoons and no severe heat spells. Vineyard temperatures rose again in September and harvest dates were early by about two weeks. The heat in the spring and again in the fall provided welcome bookends to the mild summer.

Aging

18 months, 22% new

Food Pairing

Dishes featuring rustic and earthy flavors with rosemary or mint, ham, pork or veal featuring stone fruit sauces, pizza and grilled steak, fennel crusted salmon.