Carol Shelton, Alexander Valley (Sonoma County, California) Carignane 2015

 I’m always surprised that there aren’t more stand-alone bottlings of this variety when I taste a wine like this that shows what it’s capable of.  Black and blue fruit join fall spice, gentle pepper and a light balsamic note that are well integrated from stem to stern, with a slight pepper push at the end.  Tons of pairings possibilities here — from cheese to chocolate.  From one of my two favorite producers of the variety — both women.  Coincidence?   A Platinum Award Winner at the 2018 Monterey International Wine Competition.