We are thrilled to offer you the second vintage from this passion project of veteran winemaker Andy Jones...
Andy buys Grenache Noir from Madder Lake Vineyard in the Lake County AVA. Lesser known than its neighbor Napa Valley to the south, this dynamic growing region is sought out by high quality producers for its awesome ripening potential. Gently sloping hills with deep red volcanic soil and altitude ranging from 1650 to 1900 feet are key factors in the region's success, as is the moderating influence of Clear Lake. Warm days and cold nighttime temperatures let grapes ripen evenly with moderate sugars and sufficient acidity, creating ideal conditions for this Rhone varietal. This is truly a special site in the high Mayacamas Range of Lake County and is known for producing intense and expressive fruit.
Andy utilizes whole clusters of Grenache for this wine. Lifted aromatics, wonderful tea like aromas, color stability and added structure are just a few of the elements brought out with this method when the stems are as ripe as the grapes. Co-fermented with 8% Syrah from the same vineyard, this pre-fermentation blending helps to bring even more color and structure to the wine while allowing the two varietals to fully integrate well before bottling. The wine is aged for 16 months in large neutral oak puncheons. Twice the size as a standard barrel with a higher wine to oak surface ratio, these vessels impart less oak flavor while achieving the same textural benefits of wood aging. Additionally, the wine spends a year in bottle before its release, spinning softly as the days go by, until the liquid gold is ready to be enjoyed by all. Abundant offerings of bright red fruit and floral aromas. Classic cherry and raspberry on the palate with citrus rind and dried tobacco leaf. A bright finish is highlighted by white pepper and exotic spice notes. This wine shows great potential and has been bottle aged a year at the winery so that you may enjoy it immediately. 100 cases produced.
