Appearance striking at first glance with its intense opacity and ever-so-slight rim of purple hue. It is inky purple, almost black, in the center
Aromas blackberry cobbler, plum, dried herbs, cassis, red licorice, and a hint of vanilla bean
Palate bold with layers of in-your-face black fruits, lavender, dried thyme, cocoa notes, coffee bean and a little black pepper. The acidity is medium but the tannins are gripping, softened only by decanting or aging.
Food Pairing Suggestions
With Cabernet Sauvignon dominating the vineyards of the Napa Valley, Petite Sirah is a rare find in the appellation and worth enjoying when you have the chance! Deep, inky and higher in tannins, this wine will pair most successfully with richer dishes. Experiment with meat stews, roast pork, barbecue short ribs, grilled ribeye or a roasted portobella burger topped with carmelized onions and muenster cheese. Other solid cheese pairings include Camembert, Gouda and Swiss.
Composition
100% Petite Sirah
Production
70 cases
Alcohol
14.9%
Aging Potential
Decant if drinking now. Hand-crafted to age 10 years and beyond
Vineyard
Bales Creek Vineyard
About The Vineyard
Only 3 barrels of the the 2016 Petite Sirah were produced. 2015 was the first year Terra Valentine made a Petite Sirah but Sam has coveted the fruit from the head-trained vines at Bales Creek Vineyard for years. Dennis Fife, a good friend of Sam’s dad, planted the vineyard in the 70’s. Sam has enjoyed many legendary bottles from the property over the years, and is thrilled to finally lay hands on some of the fruit.
Winemaker Notes
- Aged for 18 months in French oak barrels, 66% new
- A nearly perfect growing season, rated 97pts (Wine Spectator)