In 2013 we began grafting our Syrah at the Harrison Clarke Vineyard to Mourvèdre. The vineyard lies above the valley at over 1000 feet of elevation. The soils are mostly limestone and well-drained. Ballard Canyon is a warmer appellation in Santa Barbara County. Mourvèdre ripens here considerably later than Syrah, and therefore accumulates sugar toward the end of the season, during which the vineyard sees less hot weather. The result is better, balanced fruit––rounder tannins, excellent acidity and softer skins.

This 2016 release is our first varietal bottling of Mourvèdre. Dark stone fruit is wound in the aroma of sage and wildflowers. The palate is profuse with almost savory red fruit, reminiscent of caramelized cherries and game.

 200 cases produced

Further Reading