Iruai Sylvan Trousseau 2023
We have 6 in stock (Inventory is live and accurate)
The Land
The Iruai Sylvan Trousseau 2023 is sourced from vineyards in California AVA, specifically from Grievous Angel Vineyard in Mendocino County and Shasta-Trinity Vineyard in the Trinity Lakes AVA. These vineyards, located in the Shasta-Cascade region, are grown in what Iruai calls the "liminal spaces between the pastures of civilization and the wilds of the forest." This unique location, with its high elevation and continental climate, allows Trousseau to express a distinctive character that is both wild and refined.
The Wine
This 100% Trousseau bottling offers a wine that is both enticing and mysterious. Expect a dank nose reminiscent of marijuana gummies, followed by a palate that is juicy and alive, rounded out with subtle hints of dried mushrooms, duck fat, and cranberry sauce. It's a wine that is described as "dank like marijuana gummy bears, juicy and alive on the palate, and rounded out with a subtle hint of dried mushrooms, duck fat and cranberry sauce." This Trousseau is designed to be both intriguing and delicious, offering a unique California take on this esoteric variety.
The People
Iruai Winery, founded by Chad and Michelle Westbrook Hinds, is located in Etna, CA, within the Shasta-Cascade mountains. They began as a nomadic natural wine project in 2013 before establishing their winery in Etna in 2019. Iruai, pronounced "ear-oo-eye," is the Shasta Indigenous word for Scott Valley, their home. They are dedicated to exploring alpine varieties and creating fun, easy-drinking natural wines that express a sense of place, using minimal intervention and no additives. Their wines are for those seeking something truly different from California, with a clear nod to Old World sensibilities.
We ship wine to most states with a $100 minimum order for shipping. We don't ship spirits nor beer.
Weather shipping advisory: Orders placed during times of extreme heat or extreme cold will be held for no charge until more favorable weather returns.
This region includes wines labeled "North Coast", which are often blends including Sonoma and Napa counties. This expansive area encompasses established regions like Mendocino and Lake Counties, as well as newer vineyard sites pushing towards the Oregon border. Mendocino County is known for its varied climates, from the Anderson Valley's cool, fog-influenced areas ideal for Pinot Noir and sparkling wine, to warmer inland spots. Lake County, further inland, offers volcanic soils and a warmer climate suitable for Cabernet Sauvignon and other varieties. Beyond these, even more northerly locations are being explored for their unique terroir, contributing to the evolving identity of California's northern wine production.
California - North Coast & Far North
Trousseau is a light-skinned grape variety with origins in the Jura region of France, where it is valued for producing pale red wines with a distinctive savory and spicy character. Known locally as Bastardo in Portugal and increasingly gaining attention in California, particularly in regions seeking lighter-bodied reds, Trousseau yields wines that are often marked by bright acidity and earthy undertones. Its aromas can range from red berries and cherries to forest floor and a peppery spice, making it a unique and intriguing variety for those seeking something beyond the more common red grapes.
