2005 Petite Sirah (12 bottles)
Fazekas Vineyard, Napa Valley

The 12 year old Fazekas Vineyard is located in southern Napa Valley where the maritime influence tempers the high valley temperatures. Consisting of one acre, the vineyard’s soil is very rocky cobbley loam, which is well suited for Petite Sirah. The vineyard was established from Palisades bud wood obtained from a Calistoga vineyard planted in the early 1950’s.

The incredibly dark fruit undergoes native yeast fermentation after a five-day cold soak. Due to the tannin structure of Petite Sirah no stems are retained. Punch downs occur twice daily until dryness, after which the tank is sealed for extended maceration. At pressing the free run and the first light pressings go directly to French oak barrels, 40% new, followed by rackings every four months. After 16 months we bottle unfiltered, and then allow six months before release.