Alluvion, Calaveras County (California) Tempranillo 2016

 Tempranillo production in the U.S. is still relatively small; however, several California winemakers, like those at Alluvion, make high-quality wines with this grape.  Their 2016 Tempranillo displays aromas of ripe black cherry, black plums, dried violets, and dried herbs underlaid with oak tones of chocolate, vanilla, and toast.  The tannins are perfectly integrated with the rich texture and dark fruit, and the finish is long and satisfying.  As more people taste wines from Alluvion, the demand will likely grow for California Tempranillo.