2023 Rosé, Napa Valley

The palate is bright, refreshing, and wonderfully balanced, delivering vibrant fruit flavors propelled by crisp acidity. Ripe but zesty flavors of red cherry, wild berry, and juicy raspberry are at the forefront. The high acidity is a key feature, providing a lively, clean entry and carrying the fruit flavors through the palate. Subtle notes of citrus peel and a hint of that same herbal complexity from the nose add depth. The touch of richness from the Cab Saignée and neutral oak is present as a pleasant mid-palate weight that frames the vibrant acidity. The finish is clean and focused.

Appearance: A beautiful, vibrant hue ranging from a classic rose petal pink to a delicate salmon, potentially with hints of copper or orange on the edges, reflecting the Grenache and Cab Saignée components. It is brilliantly clear and bright, indicating purity. The viscosity appears light to moderate, leaving thin, fast-moving tears on the glass, consistent with its intended freshness.

Aroma: The aroma is immediately lifted, clean, and highly aromatic, showcasing a lovely interplay of red fruit, citrus, and subtle complexity. Dominant notes of fresh red cherry and wild strawberry from the Grenache are prominent, complemented by bright hints of red currant and cranberry potentially from the Cab Saignée. A classic rosé citrus element emerges – think pink grapefruit zest and tangy mandarin. Subtle, intriguing herbal undertones (perhaps a whisper of dried thyme or rose petal) add complexity, hinting at the Calistoga Grenache. The overall impression is one of vibrancy, freshness, and layered nuance.