2019 “Barn Dance” Enz Vineyard Mourvèdre - Tank Garage Winery

Crushed mulberry, overgrown bramble, tart dark cherry. Chocolate covered strawberry, coffee grounds, blueberry compote. A alluringly rich yet rugged display brooding with wild blackberry, black currant, and plum booms with irresistibly feral fruity charms as notes of iron, leather, and dried meat proudly assert savory leanings. An interesting collision of California chaparral and herbs de Provence reveal intriguing woody and herbal qualities that are challenged for dominance by wonderfully spicy hints of white pepper, cinnamon, cayenne, and crushed chili flakes. Wafts of cactus blossom, desert rose, and bougainvillea contribute delightfully wild floral character that rises above earthy impressions of parched soil and tangy limestone. Wonderfully complex, rustic, and layered on the palate with impressive depth and uniquely weightless concentration; exhibiting a fresh and classically-styled presentation that possesses a distinctly old world feel reflective of its old vine origins. Medium-plus bodied with elevated chalky tannin backed by refreshing acidity. This 2019 "Barn Dance" Enz Vineyard Mourvèdre by Tank Garage Winery is a captivating and characterful red from the Lime Kiln Valley.

Located within the larger Cienega Valley appellation in California's San Benito County, the Lime Kiln Valley is a small but historic AVA with rare limestone-rich soils that have been planted to grape vines since 1895. This bottling, crafted by Tank Garage Winery using old vine Mourvèdre sourced from the Enz Vineyard, beautifully captures the rugged and historic charm of this off-the-beaten-path region. Coming from nearly 100 year old vines planted in 1922, this wine generously spills a range of wild dark and red fruits complimented by brambly herbal tones, peppery spices, savory meaty notes, and complex earthiness. This is multidimensional and layered while remaining bright and approachable, and provides a unique snapshot into California's viticultural history. Wow.