2014 Sonoma County Petite Sirah
89% Sonoma Valley Petite Sirah, Rossi Ranch
11% Santa Lucia Highlands Syrah, Rosella’s Vineyard
The Petite Sirah was picked on September 16th at a deliciously ripe 25.6 Brix. Fully destemmed, the fruit was cold soaked for 5 days before being inoculated with one of our favorite Rhône-isolates of yeast, D254. Pressed to all French oak, only 22% new, we found that the addition of a little Rosella’s Vineyard Syrah gave the wine some refinement and grace. Bottled unfined and unfiltered.
Tasting Note:
A lifted and powerful nose of charcuterie plate, tea smoked duck, and wild mushrooms, before becoming more fruit driven with dark berry compote accents. The palate builds from entry to finish ticking off memories of persimmon cake, pomegranate molasses, and dark fruit cobbler. Lovers of structured wines (I’m raising my hand here), will appreciate the dusty, mocha tannins that assert themselves in the finish. A wine of some heft, but by no means ponderous. It should pair well with rustic winter meals. Drink 2020 – 2029. (JCM – 07/18/16)