TASTING NOTES: Aromas of dried earth, California chaparral, and raspberry jam smeared on a stone and left to dry in the sun. Our Carignan maintains Venturi Vineyard’s distinct dusty tannin structure, but in a featherweight and savory way. We liken this to a California version of a cru Beaujolais: easy drinking and food-friendly, with great acidity, yet it rewards those who give it more bottle age (we just opened a 2014 and it’s tasting excellent)!

ENJOY WITH: Dishes with a bit of char or chili spice like Szechuan style food or wood fired pizza. This wine adds an uplifting dimension to every dinner whether it’s takeout, leftovers, or a homemade favorite.

DRINK WHEN:You want something at the table that gets along with everyone.

MARTHA’S NOTES

Out of all the wines I make, this is the one I reach for most. I’m a sucker for light bodied savory reds! The 70 year-old Carignan block we work with is on a particularly stoney parcel as it lies on former Russian Riverbed. These parcel characteristics, along with a long, cool fermentation result in a Carignan much lighter bodied than most. This wine is particularly reflective of the vineyard site with its dusty tannins, and aromas of California chaparral and river stones. We make this in a fairly unique way with some extended maceration on the stems and skins.

Venturi Vineyard is in Mendocino County; planted in 1948; dry farmed (non irrigated), head trained; organic.