Vineyard

What began as an experiment to enrich our red wines has become a favorite of patrons and family. During Harvest, as the Malbec grapes are sorted and pumped into the fermentation tanks, we drain off 15% of the juice. Called “saignée” by the French, this technique intensifies the character of red wines. Thanks to our love of Rosé, rather than sell the juice, we followed the French tradition and fermented it to produce a Rosé. Due to the popularity of this wine, we now incorporate a second Rosé production technique: direct to press. We pick a small portion of the Malbec grapes and press it within an hour of picking.

The drought continued in 2021 with 24” of rain (average is 36”). Early bud break in March and light set (“set” is the number of flowers that are pollinated and become grapes) in May was followed by a cool Spring and Summer. The lower yields and cool temperatures allowed the grapes to develop intense flavors. We began harvest on September 8.

Cellar

Using only Malbec grapes, we fermented the 2021 Rosé cold in a temperature-controlled stainless steel tank to retain its intense fruity flavors. We carefully monitored the temperature and rate of fermentation to ensure that the wine is fruit-forward and well-balanced with a fresh finish. It was bottled in February 2022.

Drinkability

These were the descriptors when the wine was released in April 2022: The 2021 Rosé opens with a bright, fruit driven bouquet of sweet watermelon, ripe strawberries and rose petals. Fresh and lively, it has a nice richness on the palate with notes of powdered candies and raspberries. Its long, lingering finish makes it the perfect accompaniment for Summer.

At Harvest:

22.4° Brix sugar
0.79 g/100 mls acidity
3.24 pH

At Bottling:

13.4% alcohol
0.67 g/100 mls acidity
3.31 pH