Mourvedre 2021

Appellation:

Shenandoah Valley

Winemaker Notes:

The 2021 vintage was our first estate Mourvèdre after grafting over to a special clone in 2020. A beautiful crop that ripened perfectly. We harvested by hand on October 7 (the last harvest of 2021) at a Brix of 24 and pH 3.6. Crushed and de-stemmed the grapes, then cool-fermented after inoculating with a special yeast chosen to enhance mouthfeel and bring out typical aromas of raspberries, strawberries, black pepper. Aged two years with a subtle infusion of French oak, about 20% new oak equivalent.  Bottled in March 2023.

Vineyard Notes:

Our Estate Mourvèdre grows in the lower bowl at 1,900-foot elevation in granitic-volcanic soil. It is grafted on special drought-tolerant rootstock which allows it to dig deep in this soil for natural water. It thrives in the warm daytime breezes from the Central Valley and cool Sierra evenings, a 30-degree swing in temperature. The French 520 clone pairs exceptionally well with food. The lower block location is cooler, perfect to ripen over a longer growing season and develop complex flavors. It is typically the last harvest of the season.