This 2019 Carignane wine was whole-cluster fermented in a concrete egg before aging in amphora for five months. Made from naturally occurring minerals of water, earth, air and fire, amphorae have been used as a vessel for aging wine for more than 6,000 years. Carignane, a storied variety with roots dating back to the 9th century BC, is a limited-edition wine made with 100% organic grapes. The ancient practice of crafting wine in amphorae increases the development of aromas such as nuts, baked fruit and lends a slight tea characteristic with subdued acidity and rich mineral flavors.
A nice light ruby red color, this Carignane opens with raspberry, plum and fig notes. Red cherry and blueberry flavors coat the palate with layers of bergamot tea and hints of limestone. A medium bodied wine, the finish is long.
Heavy spring rains enriched the soils and delayed bud break by a few weeks. A heat spike in June, followed by warm weather, brought even veraison throughout the vineyards. A cooling trend and touch of rain in mid-September created ideal conditions for the 2019 harvest which is considered a near-perfect vintage.