Keplinger 2021 "Sumo" Petite Sirah

Sumo is a Cote Rotie twist on Petite Sirah - Petite Sirah co-fermented with Viognier and blended with a small amount of Syrah. The 2021 Sumo is a blend of 83% Petite Sirah, 11% Syrah, and 6% Viognier, all from the rocky, volcanic, impeccably-and-organically-farmed Shake Ridge Vineyard. The Petite comes from three blocks, one is 80% rock and produces small, thick-skinned berries with intense aromatics and dense structure. The second Petite block also has very rocky soil with a western exposure - the berries are ever so slightly larger and the skins slightly thinner (remember this is still Petite!), bringing a juicy elegance to the blend. The third Petite block is at the bottom of a north-facing block, and is all about vibrant, fresh fruit - the lifter of the trio. The 2021 Sumo is a beautiful wine of both power and grace. The nose is dense with aromas of intense blackberry, heady white flowers, black peppercorn, bittersweet chocolate, juniper berry, and lead pencil. The entry is silky, dense, and rich - deftly balanced with perfect symmetry of sweet and savory components. Toothsome fine tannins line the palate from start to finish, with intense flavors of bittersweet chocolate, graphite, blackberry bramble and juniper lingering beyond the long finish.