This is a substantive, structured wine, with a classic profile. Flavors include anise, plum, and mint jelly, and it maintains an acidic backbone which guarantees that it will hold well under further aging. For now, it will benefit from a decanting and a thick steak.
Blanc and Cabernet Franc at their 4 Diamonds vineyard in the Applegate Valley. We barrel fermented this wine in older, neutral French Oak barrels and aged it on its lees for 9 months before bottling.
This wine is bottled in the new Revino Reusable bottle.
“Pistoleta”; our signature Rhone White blend of Viognier, Marsanne, Roussanne and Grenache Blanc. As in other years, most of the wine is co-fermented to naturally optimize wine chemistry. In the end, we adjust the blend by adding additional Viognier and Grenache Blanc, as needed. Pistoleta is bright, fresh and fruit driven, with notes of citrus and stone fruit. It's an excellent accompaniment to Thai or Mexican food, and a great choice to have before dinner.
The Ox Block stands in contrast to the Steelhead Run Viognier. Richer, with more citrus and girth in the mid palate, the Ox Block ages very well over time and compliments rich fare. The Ox Block is our awkwardly oriented, steep, Estate planting. At one time, we considered employing a team of oxen to farm this block.
91 points, Wine Enthusiast
The Chelsea Rose may be a test in determining how much fun a professional winemaking operation is allowed to have with a wine and still be able to sell it. Making this wine has been challenging, liberating, and entirely enjoyable.
