A refreshingly tart aroma of cranberry and Fuji apple tantalizes the nose in this delicate red wine. Hints of anise and clove beckon earthy undertones of sweet tobacco and sandalwood behind juicy raspberry accents. The soft, silky acidity is light on the finish. A touch of Cabernet Sauvignon is introduced to add volume and depth to the bright, quenching tannins.
We began our 2019 harvest before dawn on August 30. After a growing season that started in winter with record rainfall, the year ended with warm, even temperatures throughout summer. With few spikes in heat over the period, our vineyards had optimal conditions to develop full-flavored fruit with remarkable color and balanced acidity. Spring rains ended in time for good fruit set. The temperate summer allowed for long hang times and consistent, even ripening. We picked the majority of our fruit in September and the weather continued to cooperate. Warm breezy days, but fortunately no rain took place in October and the last of the grapes were harvested before the end of the month.
Fruit for this Super Tuscan-style wine is sourced from exquisite vineyards on the western edge of the Sonoma Valley floor. The red volcanic soil, and excellent drainage, produce small yields of intense, highly concentrated fruit. The name Caro Santo or Dear Saint honors our namesake St. Francis of Assisi.
In the spirit of our Italian heritage, this super Tuscan-inspired blend was made to reflect its traditional characteristics. Notoriously slow to ripen, the Sangiovese grapes were picked at the end of September and put into a combination of open-top & closed-top tanks to produce a better aroma and texture. The fruit was later combined with Estate Cabernet Sauvignon from Sonoma Valley. Both tanks underwent a 3-day cold soak before inoculation, and slow fermentation.
