The 2009 Sangiovese, our third effort with this challenging grape, is a dead ringer for a fine Chianti Riserva, with character and refinement that is not often found in a California Sangiovese. All of the fruit for this wine was grown organically, and it was bottled without fining or filtration.

Its primary aromas and flavors are of cherry, interwoven with gentle tones of leather and herbs. The initial texture and flavor impression is relatively bright and fruity, tapering as the supporting tannins work their way in. There is a broader flourish of flavor at the finish as well, indicating the wine will gain complexity and show more depth if properly cellared over the next several years.