We'll Carignane, We'll Carignane
TASTING NOTES:
Zero Manipulation - “Aromas of dark cherry and black raspberry mingle with hints of brown spices and a touch of earthiness. Lively, juicy flavors of black cherry and strawberry fill the palate, while traces of pomegranate and rhubarb add interest and depth. The vivid fruit is balanced with a very subtle essence of mocha-laced oak. The smooth mouthfeel and inviting blend of flavors create an easy drinking, no thinking wine. And yet, the complexity and quality give you pause as you sip this seamlessly delicious Rhône blend.” (AbV 14.8%, pH 3.35, TA 0.69 g/100mL)
Forchini Vineyard - “Tempting aromatics of fresh-baked cherry pie and black raspberry mingle with brown baking spices that weave through the nose. The youthful entry belies the age of the 76-year-old vines that gift the grapes that produce this delicious wine. The brown spices found on the nose reappear, enveloping the palate and caressing the dark ripe cherry essence that goes on and on. As the wine opens, a mix of brambly berries joins layers of the rich spice-laced cherry that linger in the long finish. The beautifully balanced structure stays one step back, allowing the elegant, luscious flavors to retain center stage.” (AbV 14%, pH 3.50, TA 0.67 g/100mL)
Bradford Mountain - “This mountain-grown wine offers remarkable depth, starting with the rich aromatics of strawberry preserves and mixed dark ripe berries laced with hints of toasted oak. The hint of Christmas spices found in the nose plays a key role on the palate, weaving through a fusion of black cherry, dark red berries and ripe strawberry to create a dark core. The tannin-oak structure remains as the backdrop, while enhancing the complexity of the wine.” (AbV 15.1%, pH 3.48, TA 0.61 g/100mL)
VARIETALS: Forchini is 100% old vine Carignane. Zero Manipulation is 62% Carignane, 31% Grenache, 7% Syrah. Bradford Mountain is 75% Carignane & 25% Mourvèdre.
BARRELS: 21 - 25 months in French oak.
PAIRS WITH: Zero Manipulation with take-out pizza or a Rueben sandwich with fries, lamb chops with herbs and garlic served with a wild mushroom rice pilaf. Forchini with cherry balsamic-glazed salmon, chicken shawarma or stuffed eggplant. Bradford Mountain with honey-glazed chorizo, wine-braised pork shoulder with hot sourdough bread.
THAT REMINDS ME OF: That one song. You know, with that line.
