Clay Station Petite Sirah 2002

There is nothing petite about Petite Sirah. It has traditionally been used in blends to make red wines bigger and more assertive. Our 2002 Petite Sirah was fermented warm and handled gently throughout the winemaking process, maximizing color and flavor extraction. 70% was barrel aged 12 months in both new and older American and French oak. The remainder was cellared in stainless steel to better preserve the delicate and fresh blueberry fruit character so typical of the variety. This is a big, full-bodied and peppery red wine with intense blueberry character mingling with notes of ripe blackberry, read more...dark chocolate and hints of toast and vanilla. With soft tannins and a plush frame, this wine remains rich, powerful and lushly concentrated. It is a robust wine perfect for barbecue, chicken cacciatore or spinach ravioli in a meaty red tomato sauce.    (hide)

Rating: 85/100 - As reviewed in Wine Advocate # 154 on Aug-04

Rating: Riverside 2005 Competition Bronze - As reviewed by Riverside Competition on 03/31/01