2007 SIENA - Sonoma County [ $23 ]

Ferrari-Carano’s Italian heritage is reflected in this Sangiovese-based, easy-sipping, multi-dimensional blend. Select lots of grapes were chosen from our vineyards in Alexander, Dry Creek and Russian River Valleys to create a beautifully balanced and medium-bodied wine. SIENA is supple and ripe with delicious fruit aromas of red and blackberry preserves complemented by cinnamon, mocha and cedar. Juicy black cherry, raspberry jam and fresh mint create a vibrant palate that is rounded out by a smooth finish of caramel and spice. Excellent red fruit vitality is met by lively acidity, supple tannins and a lingering finish.

Vintage Notes

From our valley floor and mountainside vineyards, our vines for the SIENA are farmed in shallow, rocky, low-vigor soil that adds impressive depth and concentration of flavor intensity to the wine. The season was characterized by low rainfall, absence of dramatic heat spikes and a cool fall. Harvest started early and quickly, then slowed to a beautiful pace due to the cool fall. Sangiovese vines were harvested first, the beginning of September, while the Malbec harvest was completed a little later — by September 23rd.

Winemakers Notes

This wine is primarily Sangiovese blended with Malbec. Grapes were hand-harvested, and upon entering the winery, hand-sorted and then gravity fed directly into tanks for seven days of cold soaking. Individual lots were moved to barrels, then blended and aged in new Hungarian puncheons and older French oak barrels in wine caves for 12 months, with an additional six months of bottle aging prior to release.

Appellation:	Sonoma County
Blend:	78% Sangiovese, 22% Malbec
Cooperage:	20% new Hungarian Puncheon; 80% older French oak barrels
Release Day:	April 2009

Rhonda's Recipe and Pairing Notes Risotto with Gorgonzola and Asparagus SIENA pairs perfectly with savory Italian dishes, pasta with flavorful tomato sauces or pizza. SIENA is also good with American favorites such as chicken, lamb, pork and beef.