2012 Russian River Valley "Two Acres" Red Wine
78% Mourvèdre
6% Carignane
6% Syrah
5% Petite Sirah
3% Peloursin
2% Alicante Bouschet
As you might recall, some varieties in this vineyard failed to ripen in 2011. Also, although the 2011 Mourvèdre was picked at a respectable 23.8 Brix, we experienced our lowest sugar to ethanol conversion ever and ended up with a wine of 12.8%. But no funny business at Two Acres in 2012! With copious sunshine, all varieties excelled and ripened fully. The Petite Sirah, Peloursin, and Syrah were picked on October 8th while the Mourvèdre, Carignane, and Alicante Bouschet were brought in on October 19th. The two picks were fermented indigenously and the following spring the final blend was assembled. As usual, bottled unfined and unfiltered.
Tasting Note:
Medium-dark to dark ruby-purple. Sexy aromas of black raspberry, allsorts, tree bark, and roses. As compelling as the nose is, it’s the palate that really turns me on, offering flavors of rose petal, red berries, and orange peel. At once both full-bodied and elegant with tremendous flavor and a mouth coating texture. Quite possibly my favorite Two Acres to date. Enjoy from release (but give it a good decant) through 2030. (MRO – 07/18/14)