Winemaker Series Red Blend 2021

• Organic
• Sustainably Farmed
• Estate Grown

Each year, we meticulously handpick a limited number of barrels to create these unique releases. In this blend Cabernet Franc adds a touch of earthiness and floral balance. While Petite Sirah contributes a long-lasting terroir finish and bold color. Syrah brings forth ripe fruit flavors, mid palate weight and a splash of Cabernet Sauvignon completes the blend with a structured finish, resulting in a perfectly balanced wine brimming with captivating character. Bright fruit, spice, texture, and all of the tannin is a hallmark of the high elevation vineyards of Lake County. The dark fruits, old world characters and dried herbs come from the lower elevations of north Napa County.

Joy Merrilees is a native of Lake County. Over the past 20 years Joy has developed an intimate expertise in blending unique varietals from the fruit grown on our volcanic mountain slopes. Throughout her journey she has remained committed to preserving the traditions of winemaking while also embracing innovation and new techniques. Her love for the land, the grapes, and the art of winemaking is evident in every bottle she creates.

“The velvety character of this wine is what stands out to me. The varieties I chose to blend show off the volcanic terroir they are grown on, and carry the essence of the native botanicals in the surrounding chaparral, like California bay laurel and groundcover sage. These notes are enveloped in the earthy, floral, big fruit flavors that balance this wine.” – Joy Merrilees, VP of Winemaking & Production

In 2021, we experienced mild spring weather and early blooms, followed by a heatwave from May to July. Despite the drought, our sheep helped retain soil moisture, resulting in an early harvest from August 12th to October 20th, producing small but highly concentrated berries. This vintage promises exceptional depth and intensity.