Winemaker's Notes
Cherry and plum dominate the aromas, gently laced with cedar and vanilla. In the mouth, the wine is elegant, even understated, with perfectly balanced tannin and just the slightest hint of earthiness complimenting the fruit. Extended oak aging softens the finish and brings with it a suggestion of baking spices and cocoa
John's Notes
Notes of red cherry, red plum, blackberry, and blueberry lead the nose, and are supported by star anise, cinnamon, and the smell of wet leaves on a fall day. Similarly, the palate is a panoply of red and black fruit including juicy red/black cherries, blueberry, strawberry, and raspberry, interwoven with notes of cinnamon, red licorice, cigar box, gentle earthiness, and a smooth cocoa finish. The wine’s medium intensity body, well-integrated tannins, and smooth mouthfeel make it easy to drink
Nerdy Details
Winemaker: McBride Sisters
- Unaware that the other existed, half-sisters Robin and Andrea were raised in wine regions of California and New Zealand; independently developing an appreciation for the craft of winemaking
- They eventually found each other, and since 2005, The McBride Sisters’ mission has become clear – to transform the industry, lead by example, and cultivate community, one delicious glass of wine, at a time
- Over time, McBride Sisters has grown into what is not only the largest Black-owned wine company in the United States, but one of the most inclusive, accessible, socially aware and sustainable
Variety: 67% Merlot 33% Cabernet Sauvignon
Region: Central Coast, California
Climate/Vintage:
- Cooled by ocean air running through gaps in coastal mountain ranges, the Central Coast is large and diverse, and includes sub-regions such as Monterey, San Luis Obispo, and Paso Robles
- Unique to the Central Coast wine region is the wide array of soil compositions that allow growers to plant vines in the climate and soil that will reliably produce the finest characteristics. The marine sediment and dense, clay-based soils all show their influence in the flavor profiles of the wine they produce
Winemaking:
- Fermented in Stainless Steel
- Aged 18 months in 20% new French oak
- Residual Sugar 2.72 g/L
- pH: 3.79
Alcohol: 14.0%
Pairs Well With: Sausage ravioli, roast chicken, roast beef with vegetables
Reviews
Monterey International Wine Competition 2020: (94 points), Platinum Medal
