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Ancient Vines

2011 Contra Costa County Carignane

The Cline Ancient Vines Carignane from the picturesque Contra Costa County is a captivating red wine that showcases the rich heritage of old-vine winemaking. With a medium body, this wine offers a delightful balance that envelops the palate. Its acidity is bright and lively, contributing to a refreshing experience while enhancing the wine's flavor profile. The fruit intensity is prominent, featuring luscious dark berry notes along with hints of spice, making every sip a delightful exploration. The tannins are well-structured yet approachable, adding a subtle firmness that complements the wine's overall character. As a dry wine, it embodies a sophisticated and elegant essence that promises to harmonize beautifully with a variety of dishes, making it a splendid choice for any occasion.

Tasting notes:


Black Cherry, Baking Spice, Earth

Black Cherry

Black Cherry

Baking Spice

Baking Spice

Earth

Earth

Pairs well with:


Grilled Lamb, Lamb Chops, Grilled Meats

Region:


Contra Costa County
Contra Costa County

Known locally as "Napa before there was Napa'" due to its pre-Prohibition glory, Contra Costa is famous for its rustic red wines crafted from grapes grown on century-old vines. This AVA sits just across the bay from San Francisco, where afternoon breezes temper the hot climate. The huge shift from hot days to cool nights helps to slow ripening, so the grapes develop juicy, complex flavors without losing their zippy acidity. Here, the main grapes you will find are Zinfandel, Mourvèdre and Carignan, producing bold wines with an earthy, gamey flavor and lots of mouth-filling tannins.

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