Jolie-Laide "The Hermit" Sonoma County Trousseau Noir Blend 2025

Light garnet in color, Jolie-Laide’s “The Hermit” opens with bright aromas of pomegranate, raspberry and cranberry, layered with rose hip, black peppercorn and hints of damp earth and incense. Inspired by the wines of the French Alps, this lively, savory red is lean and mineral-driven, with juicy red fruit, a wild aromatic edge and a clean, peppery finish.

This adventurous California blend brings together 40% Trousseau Noir, 25% Poulsard, 20% Gamay and 15% Cabernet Pfeffer sourced from cool-climate vineyards across Northern California. The even 2025 growing season encouraged slow, steady ripening while preserving natural acidity. Each variety was fermented separately in tank, beginning with carbonic maceration and finishing with whole-cluster fermentation, then aged separately in neutral oak before blending. Trousseau Noir provides structure and freshness, Poulsard adds vibrancy, Gamay brings juicy fruit and Cabernet Pfeffer contributes spice and perfume.

Founded in 2010 by Scott and Jenny Schultz, Jolie-Laide is a boutique Sonoma County winery dedicated to unconventional beauty and California’s lesser-known grape varieties. Named for the French expression meaning “pretty-ugly,” the winery embraces low-intervention winemaking and thoughtful sourcing from independent growers. Rather than following a fixed recipe, winemaker Scott Schultz allows each vintage to express its own character, crafting distinctive wines that celebrate the individuality of their grapes and vineyards.