2021 Inspiration Red

Appellation

Santa Barbara County

Varietal

Red Blend

Wine Enthusiast

Vinous

Vineyard Sources

70% Rodney’s Vineyard, 30% Camp Four Vineyard both located in the Santa Ynez Valley

Barrel Aging

Aged 18 months in 100% French oak puncheons, of which 5% is new

Cooperage

Leroi, Sirugue, Boswell

Technical Data

Composition

36% Grenache, 30% Cinsaut, 28% Mourvedre, 6% Counoise

Alcohol %

14.8

Acidity

0.510 g/100mL

3.76

Harvest Brix

21.4-25.8

Harvest Date

10/21 - 11/4/21

Production

1276 cases

Description

Inspiration is red Rhône blend inspired by the outstanding blends produced out of the Châteauneuf-du-Pape region in Southeastern France. The 2021 Inspiration Red is made up of 36% Grenache, 30% Cinsaut, 28% Mourvedre and 6% Counoise with the majority of the fruit coming from our estate Vineyard, Rodney's.

It's an approachable wine with a medium body, fresh fruit characteristics and smooth finish. On the nose you'll find inviting aromas of strawberry, black cherry, dried herbs, cinnamon, vanilla, caramel and nutmeg. Bright red fruit flavors, vanilla and baking spices grace the palate.

Inspiration Red will pair well with a wide variety of foods, from grilled steak & lamb, to stews and rich seafood dishes.

Wine Critic Reviews

"The dark wood and chaparral aromas on the nose of this blend...pair with dried cherry and pepper dust elements, making for a spicy, savory show. The lighter Rhône grapes involved allow the palate to pop that pepper-crusted meat flavor atop a refreshing, medium-bodied frame, full of berry and cherry flavors." ~ Wine Enthusiast "...Floral, fruity and open-knit, the Inspiration is all charm. Crushed red berry fruit, flowers, mint and cedar are all finely melded together in this mid-weight offering." ~ Antonio Galloni's Vinous