2020 Carhartt Venture Northerly

Composition: 86% Syrah - Rancho Real, 14% Petite Sirah - Carhartt

Nose (aromas): spiced black plum, cigar box, ceylon tea

Flavor (palate): olallieberry, coffee bean, violet

Winemaker’s Notes: The 2020 vintage brought its share of challenges, including a few intense heat waves that pushed ripening faster than expected. As a result, these wines have really benefited from extra time in bottle. The brooding mix of dark fruit and savory tones makes for great food pairing. For a simple night in, go with aged manchego, smoked coppa, and spiced almonds. Vegetarian? Try a caramelized onion and goat cheese tart with olive tapenade—it softens the tannin and brings out the wine’s smoky, floral edge. Want to go big? Grilled lamb chops with rosemary and garlic—Syrah’s classic match.

Aging Potential: Drink Now - 2031+

Additional Notes: The name “Northerly” is inspired by a sub-region of the Northern Rhône called “Cornas.” The wines of this region are made from Syrah, and are dark, meaty, and heavy bodied, hence the reason for adding a touch of Petite Sirah in this blend.

''The 2020 vintage of Northerly has really benefitted from relaxing in bottle for the last three years! This is a good rule of thumb with some of our “bigger” reds, but with this wine in particular I think it allowed the fruit profile to come into balance with the more savory edges that are ever present in our style of Syrah. Another classic characteristic in this wine in regards to our personal style is a noticeable softening of the tannin profile. We employ delicate techniques in the cellar to promote this, so that the balance in texture, aromatics and flavors will be realized after a few years in bottle. This is primarily a food wine, so explore, enjoy, and have fun!''

- CHASE CARHARTT, CO-WINEMAKER