Community Tasting Note

• DrewGoin Likes this wine:

  March 15, 2016 - The Old Vine Wine Company 2012 Wirz Vineyard Carignan from Cienega Valley is best served with a very slight chill (60-65*F).
  
  Day 1: The nose of cherries is slightly less prominent than six months ago, but remains pleasant. The palate delivers a non-sweet "candy cherry flavor" along with a hint of brambly raspberries. The dusty earth and subdued baking spice flavors ride the wave of refreshing acidity that permeates this Carignan.
  
  Beneath the fresh fruit and the delicate balance is the rustic beauty of this often-overlooked grape.
  
  Day Two: The Carignan has been stored overnight in the fridge with just cork replacement. Once allowed to increase to ideal serving temperature, the fruit appears to be more assertive and "darker" on the nose and palate. Medium/medium-light body, red cherries, blacker, brambly raspberry undertones, and the fruit/acid balance is beautiful, much less "tavola povera" than on Day 1. Medium finish, with a palate cleansing zip of acidity. Probably best served tableside with lighter fare, but wonderful by itself.
  
  The Old Vine Wine Company Carignan is a product of the Alfaro Family, more known for its Pinot Noir, Syrah, and Chardonnay wines. The Wirz Vineyard is one of several older properties being given new life by dynamic winemakers embracing the unconventional varieties found in the San Benito and Santa Clara Counties.

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