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2009 Clarksburg Tempranillo

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2009 Tempranillo Label

“Well I never been to Spain…

… but I kinda like the music…Never gonna lose it, I can’t refuse it…”Hoyt Axton

Ah, Tempranillo—Spain’s noble grape and the basis for its great Rioja’s. It’s great on its own and it’s definitely on our Top Ten list for great food wines with fantastic fruit, mouth-watering acids, and enough tannin to be complex and interesting without overwhelming a good meal.

Steve, Duke, and Mike Heringer grow our Tempranillo grapes in Clarksburg, a small town sandwiched between the Sacramento River and Ship Canal. While close to Sacramento geographically, Clarksburg’s climate could

be a continent away—they enjoy a cooler afternoon breezes and a little night fog for conditions that are perfect for viticulture. The vineyard is certified sustainable, which speaks to the Heringer’s practices that include dry farming—no routine irrigation. We thought it ironic that they had a certificate, given that their family has farmed the land continuously for six (going on seven) generations. If that’s not sustainable, we don’t know what is.

This Tempranillo leads with berry aromas: red raspberry and cherry. There’s a hint of some herb and pepper on the nose, too that follow on to the palate. There, plum flavors take the lead to finish with a little hint of pepper and cocoa.

Tapas cuisine is tailor-made for Tempranillo. We love it with Spain’s rich sausages or any savory charcuterie, for that matter. It loves smoky flavors, so lighter grilled food—pork, chicken, or mushrooms—are a good choice. Stews and braises are great complements—even if they’re shellfish based. And don’t forget the cheese.

We can’t refuse it.

Technical Data:
Appellation: Clarksburg, vineyard certified sustainable
Blend: 100% Tempranillo
Alcohol: 13.9%
Acidity: 0.56 g/100 mL
Residual Sugar: < 0.1%
pH: 3.6
Malolactic Fermentation: Complete
Barrels: 1, 2, and 3 year old French oak
Harvest Date: October 11, 2009
Bottling Date: August 23, 2010
Release Date: October 31, 2010
Total Production: 142 Cases
Price: $24