Sensory Notes: Big River Ranch petite sirah is a delicious expression of this deep, dark and brooding varietal. The bouquet features aromas of dark blueberry, casis and spice. Full texture fills the mouth and firm tannins remind the taster that this is petite sirah.
Fruit from Big River was brought in at peak ripeness, crushed, destemmed and put through a 12-day fermentation. The wine was pressed off close to dryness and transferred to barrel.
Vineyard Notes: Located on a hillside above the Russian River, the Big River Ranch is a unique property in terms of location, climate and vine age. Big River boasts the deep red soil and hot summer days that give the Alexander Valley its stellar reputation for big, complex wines. It also benefits from the coastal cooling effect and early-morning fog of the nearby Russian River Valley. The result is longer “hang times” for the coveted fruit coming off these vines.
Vintage Synopsis: 2006 was a challenging but rewarding growing season. Cooler fall temperatures made for a prolonged harvest that allowed the grapes to develop deep, rich flavor and color. The brief threat of rain in early October put us on the alert, but with some moderate thinning and cluster sorting, an excellent vintage was achieved.
Strictly limited production, only 160 cases produced.