The Cellar: California Finds Under $20

The Cellar: California Finds Under $20

When it comes to exploring new varietals and blends thereof, California winemakers are known for pushing the envelope. Practically every grape varietal known to man is grown in the Golden State with rules practically only regulating labeling (in order for a wine to be labeled ‘Merlot’ the wine must be at least 75% Merlot). This stands in stark contrast to most European wine-growing regions where strict rules and regulations govern everything from the grapes that are allowed to be grown, yields per acre, vineyards management, winery practices, and so on. The wide array of California climates, which range from cool in some places to hot in others, allows for a vast array interesting and different varietals to be grown, among them the two following standouts. 

2008 Line Shack Roussanne

Roussanne is primarily grown in France’s Rhone Valley where it, alongside Marsanne and other white varietals, makes up the majority of white blends. Roussanne is also grown in Australia and, not surprisingly,

California. By itself Roussanne makes a medium plus to full bodied wine (depending on the climate). Primarily used in smaller portions for adding structure in blends, wines that are primarily Roussanne takes on a different character altogether.

There is actually 10% Marsanne and 10% Viognier in this wine from Line Shack Winery. The grapes in this wine are sourced from vineyards located in a high mountain valley within the Southern portion of the Santa Lucia Mountain Range. There the grapes have enjoyed a season of warm days and cool nights before being hand-harvested and whole-cluster pressed. The wine spent 8 months in neutral French oak barrels prior to being released. This allowed the blend to come together without imparting any significant oak flavors. Roussanne is altogether different and hard to describe. It has the body of a typical rich Californian Chardonnay, but displays no butter or toasty oak. The fruit flavors are herbal and tropical and the wine finishes long. If you have never had a Roussanne this is a great introduction. 

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2009 Michael David ‘Petite Petit’, Petit Sirah, Lodi

The grape varietal that is the primary ingredient in this week’s next wine has one of the most deceiving names in the business, because besides from its size while hanging on the vine, there is nothing ‘petit’ about Petit

Sirah. This Syrah/Peloursin cross, which also goes by the name of Durif, was discovered in 1880 in Montpellier but is most widely grown in California today. When at their best, California Petit Sirah’s are big, peppery and spicy with ripe dark fruits and tannins for structure.

For a wine that was bottled just a little more than 6 months ago the 2009 ‘Petite Petit’ from Michael David Winery drinks beautifully already. This wine is a teeth stainer my friends; big and inky with loads of ripe black cherries and spice. The tannins are surprisingly smooth and the finish is long with hints of earth and additional spice. The 15% Petit Verdot adds additional depth and color (as if that was needed). Not bad for $15 bucks. The colorful label should make it easy to recognize. This is a great food wine and an interesting alternative for all you Zinfandel lovers. Try it out. 

Enjoy!

Steffen Rasch CSW is ready to answer any wine-related questions, comments or concerns you may have. Feel free to email him at [email protected]. And as always, don’t forget to follow GoLocalProv’s Wine Cellar on Facebook.