California “field blends” are a thing — a very common practice in the early days, it is a style that is still sought out by aficionados. Back in the day vineyards were interplanted — as weaker, disease-prone vines died within a particular vineyard, they were often replaced with different varieties that were more resistant, and the whole vineyard would be harvested and vented together. Today, the process is typically a little more controlled, but the spirit is the same. This offering features equal parts Carignane, Petite Sirah, Zinfandel and Alicante Bouschet, and they play together as well as ever, with rich color, a mix of red, black and blue fruit, savory spice and a charred oak accent that serves to brighten the fruit. Mission accomplished — deviant spirit captured!
Newsome Harlow, Calaveras County (California) 2019
By Rich Cook