2019 Namesake

Harry's Hill Vineyard, Fair Play

Tasting Notes

We couldn’t be happier with our 2019 vintage of Namesake, which is elegant, highly aromatic, and complex. It offers up deep, well integrated red fruit balanced with layers of floral aromas, raspberry flowers, sandalwood, and bergamot. In its youth it has ample but not grippy tannins; they create a tension and mouthfeel letting you know they are there but without too much bite. Soft and round flavors fill out the palate, balancing the tannins for a full, lush mouthfeel. The result is one of our most age worthy wines which is also a joy to drink right now.

Winemaking Notes

As always, Mica cofermented the Cabernet Franc and Merlot after harvesting them the same day. He chose to pick based on the Cabernet Franc being at perfect ripeness, while the merlot was a touch riper than the Cabernet Franc. At the winery we bled off 20% of the grape juice for rosé prior to fermentation, to increase concentration. The rest of the juice fermented with the skins for several weeks until dry before being pressed to barrel to age. This wine will age beautifully for at least 8 years, until about 2027.

Food Pairing

If you’re feeling fancy, this wine is worthy of a special meal. We’re thinking Chateaubriand, Osso Bucco, Seared Duck Breast or even Foie Gras for an elegant food pairing. No matter how you’re feeling, we recommend you pair it with rich foods to balance beautifully with the layered fruit and tannins in this wine.

Aging

Aged in 60% new French Oak, medium toast, for about 20 months.

About Namesake

Namesake is Mica’s homage to the wines of St. Emilion and Pomerol. St. Emilion is a sub appellation of the Libournais region of Bordeaux where the wines are primarily blends of Cabernet Franc and Merlot rather than Cabernet Sauvignon like many other regions of Bordeaux. Nearby Pomerol similarly focuses on Merlot and Cabernet Franc.

Accolades

Gold - El Dorado County Fair Commercial Wine Competition 2022

Gold - Orange County Fair Commercial Wine Competition 2022

Wine Specs

60% Cabernet Franc, 40% Merlot

128 cases produced