The 2016 growing season progressed slowly with good fruit set and even ripening. The crop size was typical of an exceptional year. Following our award-winning inaugural 2015 vintage, the 2016 is primed to impress again. An illuminating blend of 40% Montecillo Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Stemach Vineyard Petit Verdot and 20% Woolard Vineyard Malbec. The wines were fermented separately and pressed at dryness. Following racking the wines were pumped to Barrel (30% new French and 70% 3-4 yr French) where they aged for 19 months before blending. We conducted numerous trials before deciding on the final blend. This wine was aged for 20 months in French oak (25% new), then blended and bottled.

Tasting Notes: A saturated deep ruby/purple hue that glitters in the sun. A rich aroma of black fruit, cassis, mint, dark chocolate and subtle vanillan oak. Cocoa, mint, blackberries, herbs and vanilla explode fill and linger on the palate. The Dog Star shines down on this vintage.

Winemaker Notes: We create wines that are pleasing to our palates, and that are enjoyable on their own, or with food. Restrained but with good structure….along the lines of an iron fist in a velvet glove. A watchful eye is kept on the alcohol levels as well to ensure your palate isn’t overwhelmed after just one glass. We have always demanded great color from our wines, a good “grip” from the tannins and importantly, varietal correctness. French oak is used exclusively as it truly enhances complexity, highlighting the aromas and flavors from each vineyard.

Pairings: Steak and grilled meats are traditional companions for this varietal blend of wine of course, and pairs beautifully. But our 2016 Sirius also loves a good pasta dish! Try it with lasagna in red sauce with plenty of ground beef and mozzarella, or a pesto pasta; pillows of gnocchi in a cream sauce; or spicy pork ravioli.