2021 Bennett Valley "Radiant Ridge Vineyard" Mourvèdre
100% Mourvèdre
Picked on October 18th at 23.5 Brix, 22% of the fruit was put to tank as whole cluster to increase aromatic complexity and structure while the remaining fruit was fully destemmed but not crushed. Nearly a month later, on November 13th, the wine was pressed to all French oak, 20% new. To add texture and suppleness to the palate, the wine was fined with one egg white per barrel but was bottled unfiltered.
Tasting Note:
Very dark ruby-purple. Black raspberry, incense, tree bark, forest floor, and pepper waft from the glass. On the palate, dark fruits, loamy earth, and spice. Texturally seamless, with smooth but authoritative tannins building in the finish. Such an alluring wine that deftly combines power with elegance. While enjoyable now, this will no doubt age spectacularly for up to at least two decades, possibly three. Drink from release through 2041. (MRO - 01/18/24)