2011 PETITE , SONOMA VALLEY Varietal: 100% Petite Syrah Appellation: Sonoma Valley Vineyard: Monte Rosso Vineyard Brix: 24.9˚ TA at Harvest: 6.9 g/L pH at Harvest: 3.53 Aging: 22 months in new and seasoned French oak barrels Alcohol: 14.0%

2 0 1 1 Winemaster: Richard Arrowood PETITE SYRAH Production: 55 cases SONOMA VALLEY MONTE ROSSO VINEYARDS

THE VINEYARD The unique character of our 2011 Petite Sirah begins with the mountain terroir of our neighbor, the historic Monte Rosso Vineyard, and its famous red soils. This distinctive fruit is characteristic of the mineral-rich, well-drained volcanic soils of Monte Rosso. The site within the vineyard where these Petite Sirah vines are planted is especially blessed; capturing cooling breezes from the San Pablo Bay which lengthen the ripening curve and preserve the acidity of the fruit. Conversely, the vineyards’ high elevation exposes the fruit to intense sunlight, ensuring consistent ripening and highly developed flavors. The vines are planted at an elevation of around 100 + feet above sea level and with an intensive dry-farming regimen that helps to deeply concentrate the characteristics of the this variety. These vines just enough fruit for us to produce between 25 and 50 cases each year.

VINTAGE The 2011 vintage was defined by the cool weather throughout the growing season. Early spring was wet, and the summer was relatively chilly, giving these a long, drawn out ripening curve. Some warm days in mid-October benefitted the grapes with harvest taking place on October 19, 2011 having reached full maturity, with high natural acidity, inky black color, strident tannins, and a remarkable depth of flavor.

THE WINE The nose opens with intense blackberry fruit character, underscored by just a hint of dark molasses. Stay with the glass for a moment and you will uncover mixed notes of blueberry and plum as well. On the palate this wine quickly leads to the dense berry characters hinted at by the nose. You may also notice an inkling of white pepper spices and licorice, all set against a backdrop of the acidity and tannin that are so characteristic of this variety. This wine is an excellent example of what this can become; the tannins are big, yet they are also round, firm, and elegantly smooth. The acidity is intense, yet carefully balances the wines body and depth of flavor. It begs to be aged, yet you may drink it now or hold for 10-plus years.

Petite Sirah of this style is a uniquely Californian tradition. As grape varieties go, it is actually a relatively new one. Developed by a French botanist by the name of Dr. Francois (Petite Sirah is occasionally known as Durif, after its’ progenitor) in the 1880’s, it is the offspring of two Rhone varieties; Peloursin and Syrah.

P.O. Box 1987 • Glen Ellen, California 95442 • (707) 938-3783 • Fax (707) 938-3221 [email protected] • www.amapolacreek.com