Nose
Rose petals, black plums, a touch of fennel.
Palate
Smooth and fresh entry, bright hibiscus acidity, midpalate of freshly cut redwood, a richly textured wine. Mouthfeel is a complex, peaty, graphite minerality. Finish - cinnamon spices, toast, acidity.
Growing Conditions
Monument Tree Vineyard is tucked in the far, western end of the Anderson Valley, where the ocean provides cool breezes to temper the hot afternoon sun. The 2015 growing season began with uncharacteristically hot, dry conditions, leading to early bud break. With a warm spring, the vines finished bloom by late May. The early-season warmth, followed by a dry summer, led to a smaller crop than normal and berries with ample tannins. The entire 17-acre vineyard was harvested in a brief four days with a dense, concentrated flavor profile characteristic of a warm, dry vintage.
Harvest
September 5 – 9, 2015
Aging
17 months élevage; 100% French Oak Barrique barrels, 27% new. Given proper cellaring, this wine will provide drinking pleasure through 2025
Appearance
Saturated crimson.
Food Pairing
Spicy lamb tacos or dried cherry and walnut chutney over grilled lamb with couscous and pinenuts.