Sunce Winery & Vineyard, Tempranillo 2009, Dragone Ranch Vineyard, Calaveras County, California

Tasting Note: Who knew California could do tempranillo?

This bottle shows it has a future.

Deep-intensity ruby in color, this wine has an aromatic nose of black plum, blackberry, clove baking spice, raspberry essence, vanilla and blossom.

On the palate the dry, medium-bodied tempranillo delivers tart, yet-ripe, black fruit underpinned by medium acidity, and supported by smooth, medium tannin.

There is midpalate complexity underpinned by a tart, red-fruit character that runs throughout the length of the taste.

Bottle Note: Sunce is a family winery located in the Russian River Valley appellation of Sonoma County. We specialize in small artisan lots of varietal wine and classic blends. “To find eternity in a grain of sand or in a drop of wine.” Aromas and flavors often combine elements of baked berry pie, herbaceousness, and an earthy-leathery minerality, giving it an untamed sort of burliness until it is tempered with more oak and bottle aging. Pair with paella, fish tacos or any spicy Spanish cuisine. Only 13 barrels made.