Description

2016 Smith & Hook Proprietary Red Blend

Located in the Arroyo Seco appellation, the Ste. Philippe Vineyard is in a dry riverbed with sandy loam soils, the perfect soil conditions for growing Merlot, the base of this blend. Petite Sirah, considered the backbone of this blend by Winemaker Paul Clifton, is sourced from two AVAs – Arroyo Seco AVA and San Antonio AVA. The Arroyo Seco Canyon vineyard is located deep in a canyon protected from wind, resulting in hotter growing conditions where Petite Sirah thrives. Further south sits the San Antonio Valley AVA, a warm growing area where hotter temperatures allow for thick skin and intense structure development. The balance of Petite Sirah for this blend is sourced from the Pacific Valley Vineyard. The Malbec is sourced from our Hook Vineyard in the Santa Lucia Highlands AVA where the gently sloping hills allow for excellent drainage in predominantly Chualar loam soils.

Wine Specs:
Vintage 2016
Varietal:  Blend
Appellation:  Central Coast
Acid:  6.6
pH:3.59
Aging:  24 months
Fermentation:  65% new French oak
Bottling Date:  November 8, 2016
Residual Sugar:  3.8
Alcohol %:  15.4

Wine Profile:

Tasting Notes:
Opulent aromas of blackberry and cherry, accompanied by vanilla and toasted oak. The refined yet robust palate is full bodied, lush and structured with layers of black fruit and toasted oak.
Vineyard Notes
St. Phillipe, Hook, Pacific Valley, Arroyo Seco Canyon
Production Notes:
40% Merlot, 32% Malbec, 26% Petite Sirah, 2% Cabernet Sauvignon
Food Pairing Notes:
Pairs perfectly with fettuccine carbonara, mushroom polenta, or roasted chicken with vegetables.

Production:
10,000 cases