2008 Three Stewges

Estate Sangiovese, Syrah, Cabernet Franc and Dry Creek Valley “2nd harvest” Zinfandel, make up our true California Red blend. The Estate field blend was hand picked September 2nd, 2008. The Zinfandel was hand picked very early October 6th, then immediately driven 500 miles south.

In both cases, after being destemmed and crushed at the Yorba Linda winery the resulting must was transferred into stainless steel fermentation tanks. Fourteen days of primary and secondary fermentation followed for both wines. Everything is hand punched three to four times per day with malolactic fermentation being started a few days before pressing. After two rackings each, they were transferred into, one and two year old French oak, on December 2nd and 3rd, 2008. The three Stewges (Mike, Greg and Stacy), made the blending decision of 60% Estate Field and 40% Dry Creek Zinfandel. On November 27th, 2009, we bottled 62 cases. This persimmon colored wine reveled its first complex aromas and flavors shortly after bottling.

The 2nd harvest Zinfandel was velvety soft, with a long balanced peppery finish. When combined with the Sangiovese dominant Field Blend, the nose became reminiscent of young apples, while dried cranberry, black cherry and liquorish, fill your pallet. Already drinking well, the wine will continue to improve with age for another five years.

Cheers!
The Three Stewges