This is our fourth vintage of Petite Sirah. The grape has had a rather muddled history ever since it was first cultivated in California circa 1890 shortly after being either propagated or identified as a seperate varitety in France in the 1880′s.
It is not Syrah, and there is nothing “petite” about it in terms of grape size or flavor. Many older Petite Sirah vineyards in California are actually ” field blends” containing as many as five grape varieties (including Petite Sirah and Syrah).
DNA fingerprinting has also shown what we know as Petite Sirah could actually be the ancient Rhone variety Peloursin. Or, as the most popular theory goes, this grape is actually Durif, a cross of Peloursin and Syrah created in France in the 1880′s.
Whatever the reason, the name “Petite Sirah” has stuck and the wine became an early favorite in California as the rich, massive wines it produces were a natural favorite when paired with old rancho cuisine featuring grilled meats and vegetables.
Winemaker’s comments: Thompson and Tres Burros are in the Alios Canyon north-east of Los Alamos. Refugio is near the town of Santa Ynez on the south side of the Santa Ynez River. Picked over a three week period and from three vineyards the wine is complex with rich full flavors.
Suggested retail 28.00/750ml
To purchase: www.sbwinery.com
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