WINEMAKER NOTES
The cool climate of the Mendocino Ridge AVA brings out bright red fruit notes and thrills your nose with raspberry jam and hints of cinnamon, clove, and vanilla. Earth and herb tones frame a balanced and bright acidity which enhances the cherry, cranberry, and strawberry flavors. Medium-bodied with supple tannins and a lingering finish, this wine reminds us of why we are so lucky to work with this vineyard.
WINEMAKING TECHNIQUES
Harvested early in the morning to ensure gentle processing of cool fruit, the clusters were hand-sorted, destemmed, and crushed to release the juice. 10% of the fruit was left whole cluster for complexity and fermented in small, open-top bins using a blend of natural and cultured yeasts. After fermentation, the grapes were pressed directly into 40% new French oak barrels for 11 months of aging. The final blend consists of the winemaker's selection of the best barrels.
FRUIT SOURCE: MANCHESTER RIDGE VINEYARD
Located in Mendocino County, the Mendocino Ridge AVA is one of California's best-kept secret sources of spectacular fruit. The vineyard sits above the coastal fog at 2,058ft, just west of Anderson Valley. Warm days and cool nights increase the hang time for ripening, with harvest typically occurring one month later than our valley vineyards.
VINTAGE NOTES
The 2018 vintage was an ideal growing season and this wine is already showing its potential for greatness. Moderate winter rainfall began the year and cool summer temperatures culminated in a harvest that was up to three weeks later than normal. Under these growing conditions, fruit matured slowly and produced grapes of exceptional quality with a harmonious blend of sugars, acid, and tannins. The resulting wines are beautifully balanced and will continue to develop over time.
THE WINERY
Bailarín Cellars was created in 2014 by a collective of family and friends, each following their respective passions. Together, we focus on producing small lots of handcrafted wines from unique vineyard sources. We are proud to share the fruits of our labor and love with you.