Jeff Runquist Petite Sirah Enver Salman Clarksburg 2022
Jeff Runquist Petite Sirah Enver Salman Clarksburg 2022
Enver Salman Vineyards, Clarksburg, Yolo County, California
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Tasting Notes
Winemaker Notes
The 2022 vintage boasts a dark purple hue, rich but not overly intense. Ripe sweet black cherries dominate the aroma, accompanied by blackberry and cassis. There's a comforting warmth reminiscent of a local baker’s ‘Triple Berry’ pie filling. Aged in 100% new French Oak, it offers nutmeg, caramel, and chocolate notes. On the palate, savory flavors mingle with luscious black fruit and creamy oak. This Petite Sirah stands out with its soft, supple texture and integrated tannins, devoid of the usual astringency. The finish is creamy, almost sweet, with lingering fruit and caramel notes.
ABOUT THE WINE ”Despite its name, Petite Sirah isn't necessarily small. It could be interpreted as the "junior" of Syrah, given its lineage. The 2022 Petite Sirah from Enver and Joe Salman’s vineyard in Clarksburg is notably elegant, thanks to the meticulous efforts of exceptional growers. Through careful extraction of flavors and gentle aging in barrels, we've achieved a wine of refined quality, boasting creamy tannins and a smooth texture. This wine stands out as one of our finest Petite Sirahs yet, showcasing a perfect blend of intensity and elegance that sets it apart from the rest.” - Jeff Runquist
Double Gold Medal at the 2024 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition -
Story
Jeff Runquist Cellars is a testament to the passion and dedication of its founder, Jeff Runquist, whose journey in the wine industry spans over four decades. Starting as an intern at Seagrams' Paul Masson Sherry Cellars in Madera, Jeff honed his skills while studying enology at UC Davis. Graduating in 1980, he gained invaluable experience working at prestigious wineries like Montevina in Amador County and J. Lohr in San Jose, where his talent as a winemaker became evident. In 1997, Jeff embarked on his own winemaking adventure, crafting wines that reflect his preference for zest and vibrant flavors. With a focus on sourcing grapes from vineyards that offer rich, full flavors without excessive tannins, Jeff's wines are characterized by their fruit-forward nature and impeccable balance.
At Jeff Runquist Cellars, the philosophy is clear: pack as much flavor and character into each wine without sacrificing balance. This commitment to crafting wines that can be enjoyed in their youth while also evolving beautifully with age is evident in every bottle. From the signature Petite Sirah, Zinfandel, Barbera, and Petit Verdot to a diverse range of varietals sourced from nine different appellations across California, each wine tells a story of meticulous craftsmanship and uncompromising quality.
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Somm Notes
Petite Sirah, despite its name, is anything but petite when it comes to character and impact. With its deep color, firm tannins, and bold flavors, this grape variety makes a resounding statement in every glass. Originating as Durif in the Rhône region of France, Petite Sirah gained prominence after finding its way to California in the early 1880s. Embraced by the Golden State, it quickly adopted its more popular moniker and became quintessentially associated with the California wine scene. While often mistaken as a smaller version of Syrah, Petite Sirah is actually the offspring of Syrah and the now nearly extinct French Alpine variety known as Peloursin. This unique lineage contributes to its distinctive character and robust profile.
In California's warmer districts, Petite Sirah thrives, showcasing its full-bodied nature and rich, concentrated flavors. Its versatility shines both as a standalone varietal and when blended with other grapes, particularly Zinfandel. When crafted into a single varietal wine, Petite Sirah captivates with its intense aromas of dark fruits, spice, and hints of chocolate, while its firm tannins provide structure and aging potential. Whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a blend, Petite Sirah continues to captivate wine enthusiasts with its bold personality and undeniable California charm. -
Region
Just inland from the Sacramento River Delta, the Clarksburg AVA in Yolo County, California, is a hidden gem renowned for its unique microclimate and diverse array of grape varieties. The cooling influence of cold air and fog from the Pacific Ocean, channeled through the Delta, creates a perfect environment for grape cultivation. Warm summer days give way to cool evenings, allowing grapes to ripen slowly and develop complex flavors. Chenin Blanc reigns supreme here, thriving in the appellation's fertile soils and temperate climate, but it's not the only star of the show. From the bold Petite Sirah to aromatic Viognier and Albarino, Clarksburg's vineyards boast a rich tapestry of grape varieties, each expressing its own distinct character.