Petite Sirah in September! That’s right, one of winemaker John’s favorites is arriving early this year! While we usually release these inky and bold Petite Sirahs to the club in December, we decided it’s been too long without one, and wanted to share this balanced new vintage.
A singular varietal, Petite Sirah is a grape that many are unfamiliar with. On the surface it seems straight forward – it’s Syrah, and there is something small about it, maybe the grapes. But this is a fraction of the story. Originating in France in the late 19th century, this grape was created by a French botanist Dr. François Durif. It is the pollen of Syrah, crossed with a very rare french grape called Peloursin. Naming this new powdery mildew resistant grape after himself, the grape Durif is virtually non-existent in France.
Today it is abundantly grown in California, where it got its name Petite Sirah because of the tight clusters and smaller berries, reminiscent to 19th century vintners as Syrah. This tight clustering of the berries was exactly why it failed in France – a place with much more humidity that regularly caused rot within the cluster. Whilst in places like California or even here in Colorado, the hotter and drier climate allows for longer ripening and consistent crops, without the rot!
With all that history covered, the most important thing to remember is Petite Sirah is not Syrah! It is its own distinct varietal that shares no similarity in expression to the Syrah grape. They are known for incredibly dark and inky colors as well as powerful rich flavors and heavier body. Our new 2024 vintage reflects this varietal perfectly, and is a great example of Petite Sirah grown here in the warm dry climate of Colorado. The nose is complex and spiced with hints of cumin, baked spiced plums, tobacco, and sweet blackberries. It is deep and dark throughout, as you see these black fruits translate to the palate and seduce the senses with a creamy smooth texture. Finishing in classic Petite Sirah fashion, there is a robust tannin and lingering black plum flavors that prime the palate for another sip, and beckons for savory foods. You could describe this wine as ‘long’, as the experience stretches and persists well after it leaves your tongue.
We are so proud of this new 2024 Petite Sirah from the Carlson Vineyard and excited for you to try it so early this year! Stop in the tasting room this month for a glass and pick up your bottle. We also forgot to mention there were only 4 barrels produced of the Carlson Vineyard Petite Sirah. So get yours before they’re gone!
Lastly, don’t forget to ask for a tour if we are crushing grapes when you’re in! Orange Muscat is already in the barrel, Sangiovese is fermenting, and just today we are crushing Merlot! Winemaking season is quite early this year, but nonetheless in full swing! If you’re lucky we’ll be pressing on a day you’re in, and you might get to try unaged wine just before it goes in the barrel! We hope to see you soon!
Cheers!
From The Balistreri Family
Natural Wine from Balistreri Vineyards
All Balistreri Wines are made naturally with indigenous yeast, no sulfites added, and no fining or filtering. You won’t get a headache with these wines.
Read more about our natural winemaking here, and be sure to pick up a bottle online or in the winery.
Try the 2024 Petite Sirah
Want to try this delicious Petite Sirah? Stop by the Winery for a taste of our current lineup. Make a reservation here!
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