2016 Sonoma Valley "Bedrock Vineyard" Mourvèdre
96% Mourvèdre
4% Syrah
Planted in 1888, these vines must be some of the oldest, if not the oldest, Mourvèdre in the state. Picked September 19th, 12% of the fruit was not destemmed to add a touch of structure and complexity to this wine. We also included 4% Syrah. Why? Simply because we liked how it brought the palate into focus and added length to the finish. Aged in all French oak, 25% new, and bottled unfined and unfiltered.
Tasting Note:
Medium to medium-dark ruby-red. Varietally precise aromas of red cherry, tree bark, and a touch of earth. Medium weight, the wine glides over the palate revealing flavors of red fruits, licorice, and spice. Gentle tannins emerge in the finish. Certainly not a bruiser demanding decades of aging as some Bandols do. Just a damn pretty wine displaying great balance and finesse, characteristics often not found with this variety. Enjoy from 2020 through 2030 and perhaps beyond. (MRO - 07/01/18)