Even before we made this blend of Petite Sirah and Zinfandel, I knew I would love it…for at least a couple of reasons: 1) Petite Sirah and Zinfandel are the two varietals I like the best (remember that our very first OCC wines were varietals from these two grapes), and 2) I love exciting blends as much (and perhaps more) than the traditional varietals we think of in this country as the very best wines! (In most regions of France the vignerons and oenofiles would beg to differ!) The grapes are from three of our favorite vineyards: Petite Sirah from Amber View Vineyard and Cabernet from the Wild Diamond Vineyard, both in Lake County, along with Zinfandel from the Firebrick Hill Vineyard in Mendocino. This wine is a stunner – the dark
...more... color and earthy/dark berry fragrances of the Petite Sirah are readily apparent as soon as the wine is uncorked. However, as the wine opens up, the delicate and subtle red bouquet of raspberries, cherries and strawberries from the Zin become increasingly apparent. The Zin also gives this blend a silky smooth, lingering finish that is not typical of Petite Sirah by itself. This may become my new favorite. Try it with steak, game, cheeses or by itself. I’ll bet you can’t not finish it in one sitting!
