Overview

The history of Petite Sirah dates back to the 1860s in France. It's a commonly accepted fact that French botanist François Durif crossed pollinated the grapes as Syrah and Peloursin and discovered a new variety we now know as Petite Sirah.

That said, this wine was grown in Lodi, in the Clements Hills AVA. The vineyard is eleven miles due east of the winery at an elevation of nearly 200'. The soil is fertile and the climate is warmer and wetter than west side vineyards, but soil types are more variable. If mis-managed, vineyards in this area will produce thin and watery wine, which this wine is not - a testament to the care taken by our grower to balance fruit and vine to allow for great wine.

The 2014 growing season in Lodi was on an accelerated schedule. A mild winter and early spring meant bud break and flowering was, on average, about two weeks ahead of normal. A light crop resulted in smaller berries, and minimal rainfall reduced mold and mildew problems. Harvest was ten days to two weeks earlier than 2013. The net result was a very beautiful, top-quality fruit with well developed flavor and concentration.

Petite Sirah can be harsh and tannic. This one is velvet and lace; the dark color, depth of flavor, hints of blackberry, blueberry, licorice and spicy notes of coffee and caramel from the oak are compelling.

VINEYARD

• Viñedos Aurora Vineyard, Clements Hills - Lodi
• Planted: 1990
• Soil type: Bruella Sandy Loam
• Irrigation: Drip irrigation as needed

HARVEST

• September 21, 2014

FERMENTATION

• Stainless steel tank, primary fermentation with OKAY yeast, secondary fermentation initiated in tank, finished in barrel.

ELEVAGE

• Nineteen months in 20% new American oak barrels, 10% new French oak barrels, 70% neutral.
• 14.7% ABV - pH 3.54 - TA 6.21 g/L - RS 0.7 g/L

218 CASES PRODUCED