2001 Russian River Valley "Two Acres" Red Wine
80% Mourvèdre
14% Petite Sirah
5% Carignane
1% Alicante Bouschet
A wonderful Two Acres, each variety was picked separately at its peak of ripeness. However, the timing of picking was such that we were able to coferment (indigenously) the Mourvèdre and Carignane components as well as the Petite Sirah and Alicante Bouschet. After a total maceration of 18 days, the wine was pressed in to all French oak, only 16% new. After a couple of positive pressure/gravity return rackings and 16 months in barrel, the wine was bottled unfined and unfiltered in February of 2003.
Tasting Note:
Dark garnet. As usual, a brooding nose of dark cherries, wild game, and iron. A touch more pepper than previous vintages. On the palate, a beautiful creaminess followed by typical earthy, spicy Mourvèdre flavors. Long and smooth on the finish. Quite singular. While drinkable now, we'd recommend enjoying it between mid-2004 and 2010. (MRO - 5/28/03)