2021 Russian River Valley "Two Acres" Red Wine
100% Field blend of Mourvèdre, Syrah, Petite Sirah, Carignan, Peloursin, Alicante Bouschet, and Zinfandel
While many old-vine vineyards in the Piner-Olivet subregion of the Russian River Valley saw normal to even above normal yields in this vintage, this was one vineyard in the area that simply did not set much fruit. Hence, 2.4 tons from two acres were picked on October 7th at an average of 25.2 Brix. Rachises (i.e., stems) were quite lignified so we opted for 25% whole cluster, a bit more than usual. After a total of 22 days in tank, it was pressed to all French oak, only 17% new. As usual, unfined and unfiltered.
Tasting Note:
Medium-dark to dark garnet-ruby. Aromatically, a heavenly mélange of game, smoked meat, roses, violets, and white pepper. Very complex! Medium-full to full bodied with a wonderful creamy texture, a defining characteristic of wines made from this vineyard. On the palate, smoked meat and red cherries with a finish that sails on forever. Enjoy this beauty from release to 2035 but if you have the patience, hold off until at least 2026. (MRO - 07/15/23)