The 2006 growing season experienced unusually cooler weather causing harvest to begin nearly two weeks later than normal. Spring arrived late and the relatively warm summer temperatures accelerated the ripening of the grapes. However, the weather turned cold in the fall months causing the ripening process to slow allowing for a longer hang time on the vine. The fruit was picked at optimum ripeness allowing for good complexity, maturity and flavor.

A blend of Grenache, Mourvedre, Cinsaut, Counoise, Syrah, Viognier and Marsanne all contribute to this red wine. In 2006, over 82% of the fruit came from our Sunnybrook Ranch in the Templeton Gap region of the Paso Robles AVA. The different grape varieties were each harvested separately at the peak of ripeness, and fermented separately employing varietal specific techniques for de-stemming, crushing and fermentation. A combination of punch down and pump over fermentation techniques, cold soaking, designer yeast, and co-fermentation were used. After settling, the wines were racked to large oak casks, small oak cooperage and stainless steel tanks where it remained until blending. Aging, fining, and racking were lot specific with the final cuvee assembled 10 months after harvest. The finished wine was bottle-aged for a year before release.

The Arabesque is immediately approachable upon opening, showcasing fruit forward aromas of cherry, plum and pomegranate. The oak aging is designed to allow just enough air to add complexity while conserving the true varietal character and giving the wine nuances of cigar box and spice. When allowing the wine time to breath, a bright nose of strawberry and cherry captures the senses giving way to smoky game, earthy mushrooms, tobacco and spice.

Classical Southern Rhone flavors of dried fruit, medium body and balanced tannins begin with spice and cedar, leading to complex layers of cherry, strawberry, raspberry and plum. A crisp finish and soft tannins allow for a silky mouth feel and a long, elegant finish.