2010 S.I.N. ~Summer In Napa~ Rose

The vines got off to a slow start as April and May were both cooler and wetter than average. The cool trend continued into the mild summer and a full growing season that was our coolest since 1978! The exception was one notable heat spell in late August, when temperatures soared to over 111F! Fortunately, September and October brought enough warm days to provide a beautiful finish to the growing season, allowing us to complete harvest a full week earlier than in 2009.

Harvested in late September, S.I.N. comes from a specific block of Pinot Noir on our estate property. The bright color was achieved by soaking the juice with the skins for twelve hours, which elevated the fresh strawberry aromatics. Fermented in stainless steel this wonderful dry rosé never saw barrel but went straight to bottle in early March to preserve its wonderful brightness. Flavors of cranberries and crisp red candied apple are balanced by the earthy sweetness of redwood followed by lingering strawberries in the finish.

Enjoy on its own after a long day or with grilled shrimp and chicken served with almond pesto and a hint of garlic. Go on, be sinful.