2022 Angels & Cowboys Proprietary Red

This sumptuous blend is sourced from some of the most iconic AVAs within Sonoma County. Our vineyard sites stretch across the region, from the benchlands of Dry Creek to the slopes of Sonoma Mountain, the mountains of Alexander Valley to the rugged ridgelines of the Sonoma Coast, and the rolling hills of Sonoma Valley to the banks of the Russian River. Within these distinctive regions, we select parcels that showcase depth of fruit character, the signature Sonoma tannin-acid balance, and an elegant yet generous palate structure.

The rich, complex structure of our A&C Proprietary Red is the result of masterful blending, built on a foundation of old-vine Zinfandel and enhanced with layers of Petite Sirah, Syrah, and Malbec. Each individual wine parcel was vinified and barrel-aged separately for six months before the first stage of blending. Kindred components, such as Zinfandel and Petite Sirah, were married early in the cellaring process, while other lots benefited from extended aging on their own and were only incorporated into the blend later. The final assemblage occurred three months prior to bottling, allowing the wine to integrate and mature as a cohesive blend. We exclusively use French oak barrels with a mix of light, medium, and medium-plus toasts, valuing their elegance and subtlety, which complement each varietal component. This thoughtful approach harmonizes the spectrum of varietal characters, unifying them into a seamless blend.

In the glass the color is lustrous in our signature profound purple red - indicative of the weight and flavor profile. The bouquet is bold with plum and briar fruit notes mingling with peppery spice and loam. The palate is abundant with cherry and raspberry fruit, complemented by mouth-filling plum, tangy lingonberry, and a burst of red apple juiciness. Elegant French oak tannins provide structure and focus, accentuated by notes of sandalwood and toasted bread. By layering the earthy, hoisin-like notes of Syrah with the peppery spice of Petite Sirah, these varieties provide savory depth to the abundant wild berry compote flavors of Zinfandel and Grenache. A continuity of French oak ties together the fruit and earthy elements, celebrating the synergy of these thoughtfully selected components.