2020 Tempranillo
Located on the west side of the Salinas Valley, the Arroyo Seco appellation is uniquely characterized by an ancient riverbed (arroyo seco means ‘dry river’) surrounded by alluvial benchlands. Well-drained, stone-laden soil and cool coastal influence from nearby Monterey Bay yield grapes with concentrated flavor and balanced acidity.
The grapes were hand sorted in the vineyard and again at the winery before being completely destemmed. Whole berries were fermented in small open-top tanks. Gentle punch-downs provided for optimum extraction, while maintaining an elegantly structured wine. The wine was aged for ten months in 25% new French oak.
The 2020 Tempranillo has a beautiful garnet color with aromas of black cherry, boysenberry, and toasted vanilla. On the palate it displays lingering flavors of smoked meat, leather, and mocha. This wine features a full body, sweet tannins, and medium acidity — delicious by itself or paired with full-flavored grilled meats and aged cheeses.