Estate-grown, Sustainably-farmed
2016 Sangiovese Alegría Vineyards
92 points - Purely Domestic Wine Report
SOLD OUT
Tasting Notes
Enticing aromas fill the glass with a fusion of cherry and cranberry, followed by a hint of Porcini mushroom. Vibrant acidity engulfs the palate with refreshing notes of black raspberry and dark cherry followed by traces of mocha, dried rose petal, and oregano.
Winemaker's Notes
When we planted our west-facing hillside in 1992, we used cuttings from Sangiovese vines inter-planted with our historic Alegría Heritage Vines Zinfandel in 1950 by Americo Rafanelli and 25 other distinct selections of Sangiovese. We also included two other Tuscan grapes traditionally blended with Sangiovese, Canaiolo (for fruitiness) and Mammolo (for aroma). Our 23rd vintage of Sangiovese reflects this field blend of clones and varieties. Our cool Russian River Valley climate gives the wine a food-friendly, Italianate balance of tannins and acidity. Plentiful rain ended a four-year drought cycle, and mild summer weather evenly ripened the grapes. A three-day cold soak in an open top fermenter unlocked the grapes’ concentrated flavors and aromas. Native yeast started fermentation, and Brunello yeast completed it. Stirring the lees monthly (bâtonnage) during 18 months of barrel aging added body and smoothness to the wine. Bill especially likes the subtle notes of cinnamon, cola, mocha, and toasted walnuts contributed by a select combination of barrels.
| Appellation | Russian River Valley Sonoma County |
|---|---|
| Varietal | 98% Sangiovese, 1% Canaiolo Nero, 1% Mammolo Toscano |
| Pairing | This classic Italian varietal is the perfect go-to for any Italian dish. Try it with pasta puttanesca, margherita pizza, or cheesy sausage lasagna, or keep it simple with tomato soup and grilled cheese. |
| Alcohol | 14.10% |
| Bottle | 750ml |
| Cases | 234 |
| ph Level | 3.79 |
| TA | 6.38g/L |