Railsback Freres Cuvee Speciale Le Counoise 2021
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- Region: Santa Ynez Valley, recognized as an AVA in 1983 within California's Santa Barbara County, is celebrated for its vast vineyard concentration and climatic diversity, fostering a broad spectrum of wines. This east-west-oriented valley benefits from its unique topography and maritime influences, with cooler, fog-laden western areas ideal for cool-climate varieties and warmer eastern locales suitable for varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. The valley's ancient marine-based limestone soils, similar to those of Burgundy, contribute to the high quality of its wines by stressing the vines for lower yields but more flavor-concentrated grapes. Santa Ynez Valley is a microcosm of California's vast viticultural potential, embodying the confluence of ideal climatic conditions, diverse soil types, and innovative winemaking.
- Elevation: The vineyard's steep ridge location enhances the grapes' aromatic complexity and preserves their natural acidity, thanks to the cooler microclimate and gradual ripening period.
- Grape Varieties: Counoise, often overshadowed by its more famous Rhône counterparts, takes center stage in this cuvée. Sourced from original budwood from the esteemed Château de Beaucastel, the grape's potential is fully realized in the Mediterranean-like climate of Santa Ynez, showcasing why it's hailed as the "grape of the future."
- Winemaking: A minimal intervention approach was used, with whole bunch fermentation and aging in neutral French oak for ten months, resulting in a wine that truly reflects its terroir and variety.
- Tasting Notes: Le Counoise 2021 offers a vibrant red hue and a bouquet of floral and mineral notes, with a palate of juicy red fruit and structured depth, balanced by an elegant poise unique to Santa Ynez.
- Pairing: This wine pairs well with a broad range of dishes, from charcuterie and cheeses to grilled lamb or ratatouille, enhancing the flavors of the food.
About the Producer: Railsback Frères, originally a rosé project and named after the scorpion fish to honor Lulu Peyraud of Domaine Tempier, has evolved under the stewardship of brothers Lyle and Eric Railsback. With roots in the French wine tradition and a bold foray into Santa Ynez's potential, the Railsback brothers have created a portfolio that speaks to their reverence for the classics and their enthusiasm for innovation. Partnering with Presqu’ile Winery and embracing wild, native yeast fermentation, they continue to explore and expand the horizons of wine from Southern French varietals.
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