Winestyr Review

Traditionally a Spanish grape, Tempranillo has thrived in the rocky blue schist and quartz soils high up in the Sierra Foothills at the famed Shake Ridge Ranch. Only 1.4 acres are planted to this variety and the fruit is organically farmed and cared for by expert vineyard manager and Shake Ridge Ranch proprietor, Ann Kraemer. Dominated by dark red fruit and with a backbone of toasted oak, mocha, and a hint of minerality, this wine has the structure and complexity to evolve in the cellar through 2022 and beyond. With that said, it has the balance and approachability to enjoy now - a hallmark of so many of my favorite wines. While it benefits from oak aging, this isn't your dried out style that turns me off about so many of the expressions from Spain, which should be no surprise given winemaker John Lockwood's experience at Littorai and Failla. Made with 66% whole clusters and fermented with native yeast. Aged for 24 months in 20% new oak. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. 100% Tempranillo. 175 cases produced.