Still
Miro Tcholakov
Alexander Valley
Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Petite Sirah, Syrah (Shiraz), Zinfandel
Geyserville Estate Vineyard.
Sustainable
The 200 acre Geyserville Estate Vineyard consists of 12 red grape varietals, varying in age from 4 to 128 years old. While the majority of the vines are supported by trellis wires, the Zinfandel, Petite Sirah and Carignane blocks are head pruned, which allows these varieties to produce higher quality fruit. Although more labor is involved in farming grapes this way, the improved fruit quality outweighs the increase time and labor cost. All of the fruit is handpicked, mostly at night which keeps the temperature of the juice from 50 to 60 ° F, which preserves and enhances the flavors of the grapes. Soil-building cover crops are used to add nutrients and nitrogen into the soil, as well as control erosion and suppress unwanted weeds, which is part of the winery's sustainable farming efforts. Nothing goes to waste as grape stems and pomace for instance, are composted, turning them into a nutrient-rich material that can be used in the vineyards.
About 70% of the grapes were fermented in closed top Stainless Steel tanks and the balance in small 1/2 ton open top bins.
15 months in 25% new French, American and Hungarian oak.
Bottle, Cork
0.750
Delaware, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania
Impressive and imposing, with very dark, opaque color, beautiful nose of concentrated blue berries and blackberries that leads to a full body mouthfeel, with engagingly soft (for Petite Sirah) tannins. After a short aeration, the nose opens with the addition of cocoa, violets, slight earthiness, and graphite followed by brown sugar and a touch of vanilla - contribution of the new oak barrels. Overall, the aromas are of fresh dark fruit and very attractive. Longevity, if stored properly, is one of the virtues of this variety and it will give you the most enjoyment in 5-8 years