2017 Cruse Wine Co. ‘Alder Springs’ Tannat, Mendocino County, California   

Tannat is a variety native to Southwest France but has also been quite successful in Uruguay in South America. Cruse’s California expression of Tannat shows just how versatile the variety can be.

Fruit for this rich red comes from the widely lauded Alder Springs vineyard at the northern edge of Mendocino county, where black bear scat can be found between the vine rows and wild boar roam at will. The grapes are hand-harvested, fermented with 20% whole clusters, and aged in new French oak. The wine is dark fruited yet fresh, with bright acidity and well integrated tannins. Enjoy with tender steaks and juicy burgers. Or perhaps wild boar ragu??