2021 Carhartt Venture Calipaña
A rich and aromatic blend of two unique varieties grown on the central coast.
Wine ships only to states where the winery is licensed; an adult 21+ must sign on delivery. Pickup at the Carhartt Cabin is available. Demo cart only — buy on the official shop.
- Vintage
- 2021
- Appellation / source
- Alisos Canyon
- Size
- 750 ml
- Alcohol
- 14%
- Vineyard
- Nolan Ranch Vineyard
- Ageing
- 18 months
- Barrels
- 8.5
- Availability
- Available
Composition: 50% Mencía, 50% Alicante Bouschet - Nolan Ranch
Nose (aromas): espresso bean, fennel seed, elderberry sprig, dark plum, smoked meat, violets
Flavor (palate): black cherry, blueberry, anise, black tea, savory herbs
Winemaker’s Notes: Our inaugural “Spanish” blend, this wine is a direct split between Mencia and Alicante Bouschet, two fun varietals that aren’t well known to the North American wine scene. Both grapes carry intense color and structure, so an appropriate food pairing is recommended. For vegetarians, try portobello mushrooms, lentils or herbed root vegetables. For meat proteins, I would go with beef or wild game that has plenty of herbs and spices or even smoke from the BBQ to bring out all of the dark fruit in this wine!
Aging Potential: Drink Now - 2029+
Additional Notes: Although Mencía is the only varietal of true Spanish origin, both these varietals are heavily planted in Spain (as well as the whole Iberian Peninsula), and their migration to California and historical significance in Spain lends itself to the name “Cali-paña.”
"Ever since our first vintage with this fruit in 2021, I have been waiting to release this wine. The truth is, both Mencía and Alicante Bouschet can have quite a bit of serious tannin, so this now year and half in bottle was absolutely necessary to allow the wine to soften up a bit. That being said, it still has plenty of power in almost every aspect possible, and I believe it will cellar nicely over the next 5-10 years. If drinking now, enjoy alongside bold flavors, from peppered meats to earthy mushrooms, or anything with a layered herb seasoning! "
- CHASE CARHARTT, CO-WINEMAKER
