2009 Compass Rose Wines ‘Alysa’ California Red Wine

About This Wine

It takes four grape varieties and three growers to craft the special wine known as “Alysa.”

The varieties are natives of France’s Rhone Valley, embraced by a cadre of growers and vintners who have come to be known as “The Rhone Rangers.” The “Alysa” blend includes Grenache, Syrah, Carignane and Viognier.

Bill Crawford’s family has farmed in the benchlands east of the town of Hopland for 40 years, and Crawford has dedicated a 10-acre block of Grenache to the project. Casey Hartlip organically farms mostly Rhone varieties at Eaglepoint Ranch, 1,800 feet above the town of Talmage. And Greg Lolonis farms 50-year-old, head-pruned Carignane vines in California’s Redwood Valley.

Winemaker Kenny Likitprakong takes these special grapes and transforms them into a rich wine defined by its purity of fruit. The 2009 vintage is sublime, and there’s even better news from Likitprakong: “We intend to stay true to that style year after year.”

About Red Blend

Tasting Notes

• Grape Composition:Grenache, Syrah, Carignane and Viognier
• Grape Source:Select Vineyards in Various California Growing Regions
• Aromas & Flavors:Raspberry, Strawberry, Spice, Cedar, Vanilla & Boysenberry
• Aging Vessels:Assorted Oak Barrels
• When to Drink:Now Through 2015
• Food Pairing Suggestionpizza, lasagna, or a grilled burger.

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