FLEUR DE CALIFORNIA 2022 Petite Sirah 'North Coast' (Suisan Valley, CA)

We have loved FLEUR DE CALIFORNIA since the store opened. In fact, we have had their Pinot Noir in our wine-club in the early days. The Petit Sirah has just come onto our radar, and we are eager to share.  FLEUR DE CALIFORNIA is a brand created by Francis Mahoney of CARNEROS CREEK WINERY – long gone from today’s CA wine scene!

Grapes are sourced from the Suisun Valley AVA, lying just east of Napa Valley (with a very similar climate). Bordered on the east by the Vaca Mtns. and on the west by the Howell Mtns, it has a perfect climate for this varietal. 

If you aren't familiar with Petit Sirah, that would make sense. Little is produced worldwide, and most of its production is in California. It was created in eastern France in the 1800s and named for its parent grape Syrah (on one side) as well as its tendency to make small, tight clusters of grapes. It is NOT a 'little Syrah' - and this will become immediately clear when you try it. This wine is robust, smooth, and inky. Known for its weighty body, velvety tannins and dark fruit notes, it is a wintertime winner.