95% Sangiovese

5% Syrah

Sourced from Ledbetter Family Vineyards in Lodi, CA, the Sangiovese and Syrah are planted on the bench in rocky, well drained soils.

The vineyards are farmed regeneratively (Certified Regenerative by A Greener World) without the use of glyphosates (RoundUp) or other pre- or post-emergents. In fact, AVIVO is one of just three American wine brands certified to be glyphosate-free.

2021 will be remembered as an outstanding vintage. The growing season suffered almost no frosts in March and April; the days during flowering were mild and windless, and there were no intense heat spikes during ripening. Cluster weights and berry sizes were understandably down due to the ongoing drought, but this led to concentrated flavors and color in the wines. While growers and wineries suffered from smaller than usual yields, this vintage promises to be one of tremendous quality for wine consumers.

The grapes were harvested on August 24, 2021.

While 90% of the grapes were de-stemmed only and transferred by gravity to open-top fermenters, the other 10% was left whole cluster and added to the bottom of the tank. A long, cool 5-day cold soak was performed. The must was then left to warm on its own and fermented with indigenous yeast to promote complexity and terroir. The new wine was pressed off slightly before dryness to minimize harsh phenols and retain its core of fruit. It finished fermentation in stainless steel. Malolactic was completed with indigenous flora in neutral barrels.

Aged in neutral French oak barrels for 9 months.

The finished wine was bottled in July 2022.

Brilliant ruby red in the glass, the nose opens with notes of crushed cherries, dried thyme, oregano and coriander, and charcuterie. The palate is nicely balanced with chalky tannin and bright acidity. Flavors of pomegranate seeds, red berries, rhubarb and peppercorn meld together in a long, fresh finish.