TASTING NOTES
A risky yet rewarding experiment our Winegrower made when planting this dark inky grape which enjoys higher altitude regions similar to ours. Although we pioneered planting this varietal in Colorado, its lineage dates back many years and is recognized as an ancient noble Italian varietal. Raspberry, Prickly Pear & vanilla adorn a plush mouthfeel. Notes of dried mission fig, with velvety tannins and balanced oak.
WINEGROWING
Grown with a focus on sustainability. These grapes are farmed on nutrient rich soils, made up of a decomposed ancient sea bed. A properly managed, umbrella like canopy allows for just the right air flow and dappled sunlight on to the clusters to achieve maximum quality. The higher water holding capacity of these soils allow for fewer water applications throughout the season, and lends to the uniqueness of the wine.
WINEMAKING
De-stemmed and left uncrushed, the whole berries tend to express more red berry fruit character than crushed. Intracellular fermentation kicked off in each berry but was followed by 1-3 gentle punchdowns daily. Once dry the wine was pressed to neutral oak barrelS to carry out malo-lactic conversion. Minimal sulfites added at bottling.
2024 Governor's Cup Double Gold Medal Winner