2023 Spring Release
“Travel to explore, not to escape.”
We are enjoying early signs of spring and lots of sunshowers in Napa after ringing in the New Year on the west coast of South Africa. As you can imagine, traveling 24 hours by plane with an almost two year old leads to a few misadventures. We've learned a sense of humor makes the journey much more enjoyable and these moments turn into stories worth telling. Luckily, laughter is the same in every language.
One of the highlights of the trip was enjoying a bottle of our 'Chasing the Sunset' Rosé for sundowners at Chapman's Peak (the location on the label and our favorite sunset spot). It felt like a full circle moment, shared with family, making it even more special. Sometimes we get to watch sunsets in stunning places, sometimes we catch a glimpse from the kitchen window, but the tradition of sundowners can be enjoyed anywhere. Once you have a glass in hand, wine can transport you to places or memories you love, all it takes is being present.
Returning home, we had full hearts and a renewed excitement for all that is to come this year, including our Pop-Up at Bay Grape Napa this Saturday and Oakland next Saturday (we hope to see you there!). Our fall release will feature two brand new wines, while this release features two favorites - 'Chasing the Sunset' Rosé and 'Sunshower' Carbonic Red.
Our 2022 'Chasing the Sunset' Rosé, sourced from the beautiful Veerkamp vineyard in El Dorado County, is reminiscent of our very first vintage – bright, fresh, and full of minerality. The site is located at 1,750' elevation and has amazing volcanic soils. A blend of Mourvèdre, Cinsault, and Grenache, aged in 100% stainless steel, pair with early evening hikes and sunsets.
Our 2022 'Sunshower' Carbonic Red is 100% Mourvèdre, from the high elevation Goldbud and Futernick vineyards in El Dorado County. We harvested the grapes on the early side, used carbonic maceration for 7 days (in tank), before going straight to the press. This vintage is lighter and brighter than the 2021 and is meant to be served slightly chilled. We can confirm it is extremely crushable, pair with pre-dinner dance parties and your favorite company.
The 2022 growing season was a bit challenging in El Dorado, with a "once in a 40-year" frost that happened after budbreak, leaving little fruit in the vineyards. Because of this, we only made 3 barrels of each wine.
A sense of adventure and love of the unexplored is likely what led you to us. Thank you for keeping an open heart and finding joy in the discovery. Stay wild.
With love and gratitude,
Bertus, Alli & Margo