2002 Dry Creek Valley Petite Sirah
100% Dry Creek Valley Petite Sirah, Unti Ranch
A worthy successor to our 2001 Petite Sirah, this year's Petite sSrah comes exclusively from the Unti Ranch in Dry Creek Valley. Cropped at approximately two tons to the acre, the fruit was fully destemmed and cold soaked for five days before being inoculated with a strain of yeast known for producing high amounts of glycerol. After fermentation was complete, the wine macerated on the skins for an additional two and a half weeks for a total of 34 days on the skins. It was pressed into all French oak (20% new) and after 16 months in barrel, bottled unfined and unfiltered.
Tasting Note:
Black color, glass staining. Deep, dark, rich aromas of blueberry, blackberry, graham cracker, and loamy earth highlighted by notes of vanilla. The wine enters smoothly, quickly enveloping the mouth with its weight and creamy, silky texture. Like thick blueberry syrup. Round, ripe tannins creep in on the finish. This lusty wine will drink well from release to 7 years from vintage date. (MRO - 11/4/03)