Syrah
One of the up and coming varietals in California, known as the great grape of Hermitage in the Rhone region of France. This varietal has only emerged in California since the 1980s. We currently have 5.5 acres of Syrah. Our Syrah is planted on rootstocks 140R and 1103.
Merlot
An all-time favorite grape from the Bordeaux region of France. Although the majority crop of this grape is usually blended with Cabernet Sauvignon to soften the tannins, it also holds a class of its own in the market. We currently have a bit over 4 acres of Merlot. It is planted on rootstocks 1103 and is clone 181.
Cabernet Sauvignon
This great grape of the Medoc region of France has been widely adapted in California. Once known for its pure unblended varietal, the current vogue is blending it with others of the Bordeaux varieties to achieve more complex flavors and to sometimes escape the somewhat brutish alcohols and tannins. We currently have over 7.5 acres of Cabernet Sauvignon. Our Cab is planted on rootstocks 1103 and 140R with clones 8 and 337.
Grenache
Grown on 4 acres, the wines reflect the conditions under which the grapes were grown. When grown under tough conditions or from old vines the wines can be rich and complex, with flavors of roasted nuts, blackberries spices and above all earthiness. As young wines Grenaches are firm and sometimes rough textured. The colour often does not adequately prepare you for the depth of flavour.
Viognier
Viognier produces very fragrant (floral and fruity aromas) wines with good acidity, tannin structure, and relatively high alcohol. The best examples are produced fairly simply and cleanly, often going from stainless steel fermentation to the bottle. Viognier is sometimes blended with Syrah (up to 20 percent) to give the resulting wine more fragrance and elegance. Some French Château Viogniers are considered to be among the best and most expensive white wines in the world. Grown on 5 acres.