Wild raspberry, raw jalapeño, pomegranate husk. Underripe blackberry, eucalyptus oil, garden strawberry. A surprisingly untamed yet enticing procession of Morello cherry, tart blueberry, and cranberry playfully collides with a parade of green bell pepper, bay leaf, parsely, and thyme in an intriguingly spicy display. Hints of coffee bean, cinnamon, and bitter cacao gently emerge to provide lovely bits of roasted depth that are softly lifted by pretty floral tones of rose, lavender, and geranium. Faint impressions of dry sandy soils expose subtle reflections of earth before impressions of muddled mint and cedar reassert a decidedly herbal edge. Delightfully fresh, juicy, and approachable on the palate while remaining impressively nuanced and complex; exhibiting an unconventional yet well balanced and delicious presentation that is delicate, pretty, and driven by wonderfully savory non-fruit flavors. Medium bodied with mellow tannin backed by nicely elevated acidity. This 2019 Cienega Valley Cabernet Pfeffer by Maker Wine is an esoteric yet exceptional red from San Benito County.

Thought to be either a Cabernet Sauvignon based crossing or perhaps even the rare Bordeaux grape Gros Verdot, Cabernet Pfeffer is a unique and sparsely planted dark skin variety that is thought to be found only in a few select vineyards in California. This offering, crafted by Ser Winery using 100% Cabernet Pfeffer sourced from the Wirz Vineyard and canned by Maker Wine, is an intriguing and delicious example of this uncommon yet compelling grape. This wine playfully spills bunches of tart and juicy red and dark fruits deeply intertwined with pronounced spicy herbs, lifted floral tones, delicate coffee notes, and a touch of earth. This comes from one of the oldest known Cabernet Pfeffer vineyards in existence with vines that are over 100 years old, and is sure to both delight and captivate those who enjoy wines that diverge from the norm. Outstanding.