Cline Small Berry Mourvedre 2002
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Vineyards
The fruit for Small Berry Mourvèdre comes from a small block of our vineyard with low yields that consistently produces one of our most complex and concentrated Mourvèdres. The head-pruned vines are at least 100 years old and are planted on their original rootstock, making this one of California's most historic vineyards. This wine exemplifies the unique character of the varietal while showcasing the elegant flavors that are contributed by the phylloxera resistant sandy soils described as our singular Oakley terroir. The proximity of this vineyard to Eucalyptus trees also contributes to the signature of this wine.
Cline Cellars dry farms these ancient, head-pruned vines, continuing a practice employed by the Italian and Portuguese immigrants who planted this vineyard well before the turn of the last century.
Other Vintages
2001-
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Spectator
California is a winemaking colossus; by itself it is the fourth largest producer in the world. Red wine accounts for 56% of the total by volume, and red grapes 63% of total acres planted. In addition, a number of California red wines are heralded as being among the most prestigious and sought-after wines in the world.
While the state’s incredibly diverse geography, soils and microclimates allow for a wide array of styles, the key factor unifying California red wine is the abundance of sunshine and a long, consistent growing season. This leads to well-developed fruit marked both by impressive ripeness and balancing acidity.
The state’s most famous red wine region, of course, is Napa Valley, where Cabernet Sauvignon reigns as king. But California boasts a wealth of other impressive appellations. The much larger and climatically varied Sonoma County also produces world class California Cabernet, along with wonderful examples of California Pinot Noir and Zinfandel.
Fine versions of Cabernet and Zinfandel hail from Paso Robles as well, which is also gaining fame with Rhone varietals like Syrah and Grenache. As for Pinot Noir, terrific examples can be found from AVA’s such as Anderson Valley, Carneros, Santa Lucia Highlands and Sta. Rita Hills. Wineries in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo Counties are making wonderful Syrahs, and the Sierra Foothill appellations are proving to be an experimental hotbed, with Italian and Spanish varietals employed to great effect.
This of course is a mere sketch. The subject of California red wine is as deep and broad as an ocean, and absolutely a joy to explore!