Martha Stoumen Wines Carignan Ricetti Vineyard Mendocino County 2019

Varietal: 100% Carignan

Vinification Notes: Carignan was harvested by hand, kept whole-cluster, and fermented in an open-top stainless steel tank. A few bins of grapes were foot tread to encourage the onset of fermentation, while the remaining majority of the whole-clusters were loaded on top. During early stages of fermentation, gentle body punch-downs and short pump-overs were used in order to limit extraction. We pressed the Ricetti Carignan just prior to reaching dryness, ensuring that the tannin extracted would lean toward the delicate, softer expression of the varietal as the wine finished fermentation in barrel. The wine spent a full 24 months in neutral French oak barrels before final blending and bottling. 

Vineyard: Carignan from Ricetti Vineyard, Mendocino County; planted in 1948; certified organic; dry farmed on gravelly loam. 

Tasting Notes: Compared to the wild, earthy flavors of Venturi, Ricetti Carignan invites us to dance in a more delicate dimension. Smells like stepping into a sauna, crumbling dried rose petals, and breaths of dry mountain air. A silky body offers a taste of cinnamon and sunny red currant.