Kivelstadt Cellars "Father's Watch" Red Blend 2023

This dramatic, medium-bodied wine does a great job of emulating its French Rhône forbearers as it offers fruity spicy earthy complexity on a big structure, complemented by a full mouthfeel and firm tannins. Vibrant and layered, with aromas of high-toned red fruits and spiced herbs and a bright and lively palate. The Rhône-style blend is made from 36% Syrah, 34% Grenache Noir and 30% Carignane. The Carignane and Grenache bring high tone fruit, approachability and energy to balance out the earthier Syrah in the blend.

Grape varieties were picked and fermented separately & fermented with ambient yeast in order to preserve the characteristics of the vineyard. 1⁄3 of the grape clusters are added to the tank whole while 2⁄3 are destemmed and put into the tank without grape stems. Fermentations were pumped over minimally in order to wet the cap. The idea is to gently extract flavor and tannin. This brings a combination of high-toned flavor and rich aroma brought on by whole clusters in the ferments. 22 months of aging in neutral French oak helped bring the multiple sides of this blend into harmony.

Venturi Vineyard is located just north of Ukiah, in the Calpella Valley, on predominantly Pinole gravelly loam soils. Pinole soils are some of the most sought-after soil types in Mendocino County. Highly deficient in organic matter, the moderately acidic soil pH allows for optimal nutrient uptake to allow the vines to thrive dry farmed. This 70 year-old vineyard is still amazingly healthy and productive. The vineyard is certified organic, certified sustainable and dry-farmed (never irrigated).