We're a little giddy over this new release from Cline Family Cellars. To be honest, Petite Sirah doesn't cross our paths nearly as often as a more dominant Cabernet or Merlot. But when it does, we are always very eager to taste it and share it with you. The 2019 Cline Family Cellars Petite Sirah (Contra Costa County) is an inky purple wine in the glass that is immediately inviting and tempting. Since this wine is very young, we decanted it for about 45 minutes prior to tasting. The decant opened up this wine considerably and brought forth appetizing aromas of blueberry, mocha, dark chocolate and flecks of mild pepper. While we often think of Petite Sirah as a straight-forward wine used primary for blending other red varietals, this one steps outside of that comfort zone. Full and distinct blue and black berry compote flavors explode in the mouth, joined with mild spices, a whisper of vanilla and a finish of star anise against solid tannin that allows this wine to linger on the palate for several delicious moments. This wine proves that A) you don't have to spend a lot of money on wine to really enjoy it and B) Petite Sirah, when made this well, can be enjoyed independently of any food. Well done!
ABV: 14.5%
Contra Costa County, CA
Suggested retail price: $22.00
Drink The Bottles score: 91/100
