2021 ÉTRANGER ESTATE GROWN

We crafted our first vintage of Étranger just a few years ago as an attempt at releasing an Estate Super-Cuvee, throwing away all conventions and simply searching for the BEST wine that we could produce off the Estate. The first big step was to realize that a Mourvèdre dominant blend was the key to this wine. The Mourvèdre from the Estate was going from strength to strength, with 2021 possibly being the best vintage ever. After lots of trials and tastings we slowly focused in on this new blend that is actually named for the "foreign" grape in this richly, concentrated red wine.  Big dreams, careful farming, tiny yields, unwavering focus, and a relentless pursuit of perfection has yielded this stunning bottle of wine.  It is a study in contrast – having both power and grace, drinkability, and a future-proof ability to age gracefully for a decade and more.  Drink or hold, you choose.  Just do not miss out on this beauty. The fruit notes this year form the majority of the aromatics with notes of blueberry and cherry pie, raspberry, candied violets, baking spices and a yummy toasty oak from the indulgent French oak aging regimen. This vintage is a blend of 60% Mourvèdre, 20% Grenache, and the rest Syrah and Petite Sirah.

James Suckling: 96 Points #31 in Top 100 Wines of California November 2024