Vintage
Harvest started earlier this year. The fruit came in more elegant and spicy with lower-than-normal alcohol levels than in previous vintages. The Syrah and Grenache we harvested was not ready before the early storm but their thicker skins withstood the rains. Across the board, yields were down about 30%, but the quality came though with a classic Northern Rhone styled red wine.
Vineyards
The fruit was sourced from many of the best blocks of Syrah and Grenache from Ray Teldeschi Vineyards in the Dry Creek Valley, and Atoosa’s Vineyard in the Russian River Valley. Yields were maintained at lower levels for increased quality, ranging from 1.5 to 2.5 tons/acre.
Winemaking
Grapes were picked in the darkness of the early morning hours, and immediately subjected to rigorous hand sorting and refinement process. The whole berries were gently delivered to tank. Cold soaks lasted five to seven days, and fermentations were managed via a combination of delestage and pumpovers. Extended maceration ranging from three to four weeks fine-tuned tannin profiles, allowing perfect mouth feel and wine complexity. The wine was aged 20 months in 100% French oak, 35% of which was new.
Winemaker Tasting Notes
The 2011 Cosa Obra Proprietary Red offers a heady nose of blackberry, blueberry, black pepper and a hint of earth, reminiscent of Northern Rhône. Impressively rich yet balanced and structured, this wine showcases intense dark and red fruit with a long finish of berries and spice.
Analysis
Appellation: Sonoma County
Vineyards: 66% Ray Teldeschi (Dry Creek), 33% Atoosa’s Vineyard (Russian River Valley)
Varietal Composition: 90% Syrah, 10% Grenache
Aging: 20 Months in 100% French Oak, 35% New
pH: 3.79 TA: 5.9 g/L
Alcohol: 14.5%
Bottled: Summer 2013
Production: 152 cases
All Wines
Violet black in color with aromas of rich fruity dark berries, honeycomb, vanilla, and hints of forest floor join together with bold flavors of black cherry, and spiced nut. Balanced oak, layered palette, leaving you with a enjoyable persistent finish.
Big & Jammy!
Aromas and robust flavors of dark cherry, blackberries, mocha, espresso and hints of black pepper. Incredibly balanced with a smooth mouthfeel and body against a backdrop of structured tannins. The wine unfolds with notes of clove and dried herbs, ending with a long rich finish.
Rich & Luxurious!
Beautiful ruby color and opens with aromas of bright red plum and raspberry, cassis, and a touch of mint. The tannins are soft yet structured, and complemented by vibrant acidity, with hints of clove and baking spice from the oak aging. The wine ends with a long, smooth finish and lingering intensity encouraging you to enjoy another juicy sip.
Rich & Tropical...
Notes of tropical and ripe stone fruits, with aromas of fig, golden apple and hints of butterscotch, integrated with the richer aromas of light caramel, truffle and toasted vanilla from the oak aging. The palate and texture is rich, full-bodied and creamy, while maintaining a balanced vibrancy and finish.
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