Winemaking Notes: Winemaker Avi Deixler sources all of his fruit from Poor Ranch, an organically farmed vineyard in Mendocino County. The Carignan, Abouriou and Petite Sirah fruit ferment whole cluster in sealed barrels. The Syrah fruit is fermented whole cluster in tank and then pressed to barrel. The Red is bottled unfined, unfiltered and with no additional sulfur or additives. Nothing but grapes.

Barrel Program: Most of us don't think much about the chemicals used in wood barrels and their effect on wine. Enter Avi Deixler. For his barrel program (Link->) , Avi sources used barrels and hand sands them inside to remove any residue, flaws or charring blisters from previous use. With absolutely no chemicals remaining in the wood, the fruit's live cultures are best able to naturally influence the wine during fermentation.

Tasting Notes: Give this wine some meat! The Red is balanced but bold. The aromatics are rich and fruit forward, with a touch of sandalwood. Similar notes of dark berries and black currants construct the palate.