Varietal
Petite Sirah has a somewhat mysterious lineage. The famed French ampelographer Pierre Galet asserts that it is a descendant of Durif, a nearly extinct French varietal. DNA testing of California Petite Sirah of the early 1990's suggested it was actually related to famed Rhone varietal Syrah. In either case this varietal, which grows well in Monterey as wellas the Italian-American settlements of Sonoma and Paso Robles, is known for its substantial tannins and deep color. Though often used in blends to shore up softer, paler red wines, it has garnered a strong cult following for its dark character and magnificent age-ability.

Vinification
Strict tannin management is a must with Petite Sirah. The grapes from two lots were divided into smaller lots and cold soaked for three to five days prior to fermentation. The grapes were lightly pressed to maintain a delicate balance between flavors, coler and trannins. The wine then spend 16 months in oak before being bottled in June of 2000. Alcohol 13.5%, T.A. .55, pH 3.74, residual sugar .01.

Tasting Notes
An intense, powerful wine with aromas of plums, berries and spice. Flavors of blackberry smokey-plum and cedar give way to a long and smooth finish.

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