Young, densely planted vines above Lake Mendocino are the source of this Rhône-style blend of Mourvedre, Grenache and Syrah. Lush, ripe red and black fruit, supple tannins, and hints of earth, leather, licorice and Asian spice make for an easy-drinking yet layered wine that finishes with a mouthwatering kick. It’s from renowned Sonoma/Napa winemaker David Ramey, whose employs his Sidebar label to explore underappreciated regions, vineyards and grape varieties in California.
Sidebar Cellars, Redwood Valley (Mendocino County, California) 2014
By Linda Murphy