2019 Bennett Valley "Radiant Ridge Vineyard" Mourvèdre
100% Mourvèdre
Our last fruit of the year in 2019, coming in on the morning of October 23rd, about 12 hours before the Kincade Fire started. (The Kincade Fire went on to burn nearly 78,000 acres in eastern Sonoma County over a two-week period.) Eighty percent of the fruit was destemmed while the remainder was left as whole cluster to provide additional structure and spice. After an uninoculated fermentation and 22 days in tank, the wine was pressed to all French oak, only 18% new. Unfined and unfiltered.
Tasting Note:
Very dark purple-garnet. Verges on opaque. A deep, highly complex nose of black and blue fruits combine with suggestions of damp earth, tree bark, and baking spice. Very exotic! On the palate, medium full-bodied with flavors of black cherry, plum, and white pepper. Gentle tannins in the finish remind you this is Mourvèdre but overall, very refined and not at all rustic. The bottle opened for this tasting note disappeared quickly but I have no doubt this will age magnificently. Optimum enjoyment should be from 2024 through 2036. (MRO - 07/18/22)