2017 Oveja Negra
45% Mourvèdre, 25% Grenache, 24% Syrah, 5% Counoise
Old Oak District – Willow Creek District
Whole cluster on Grenache, 30% stem inclusion on Mourvèdre, native ferments in Sept., then blended into foudre (600 gal. oak tank) and aged 18 mo.
Our goal with this wine is always for it to be a balanced wine, with ample, yet not overbearing fruit, nice spice and game notes. Striking but with restraint. I feel we achieved those objectives with this wine.
Rich opaque garnet color, a nose of fruit and charcuterie. A spice, likely brought by the stem inclusion. Just a whisper of menthol. Luscious, with luxardo dipped in chocolate. Brought to balance with bright pomegranate seed, classic chalky Grenache tannin. It is long and will live long. It is asking for cuisine.
Pairing: Herb Crusted Lamb, Chef Jeff’s Lamb Burger, Portabella Tacos @ Halfway Station, Cassoulet