Winemakers Notes: 

This Tempranillo is split between two blocks, one is on granitic soil and one volcanic. One is valley floor and one is hillside. One is a more tannic site, one is more interplanted with Graciano to give more acidity in the final blend. Organically and sustainably farmed. This wine is an ode to the Gran Reserve Rioja style with rich layers of dark fruits and a warmth and spice note on the palate with 30% new French Oak. Drinking well now and for 20-30 years.

Vineyard:

Shake Ridge Ranch sits at 1500 feet elevation in the Sierra Foothills, northeast of Sacramento. This site experiences warm days and very cool nights with an Alpine Influence dominating. The soil is a blend of Volcanic, Quarzite and Alluvial. This property has a majestic quality to it that make working with it a great pleasure. The viticultarist and owner, Ann Kraemer, is a master in her craft and a true wizard of the vine.

The Cantadora Woman:

Sonia Melara moved to California from El Salvador as a teenager. She co-founded La Casa de las Madres, the first domestic violence shelter in California, in 1976. She is a Lecturer in social work at San Francisco State University and the Executive Director of Rally Family Visitation Services of Saint Francis Memorial Hospital. She has served on numerous boards and commissions in the SF Bay Area.