2012 WHITE HAWK SANGIOVESE

Santa Barbara County

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This is a novelty for the Ojai Vineyard after having worked with syrah from this site since 2000. We made this wine for the first time in 2011 and from its inception it was powerfully attractive. Carried by the enthusiasm of our staff at the tasting room it sold out rapidly and unfortunately few customers or restaurants got a chance to try it. This time around we are giving our club members a chance to experience its charms. In Italy the varietal is usually made in a more oxidative style. The naturally high acidity and tannins are brought into prominence and thus the wines require long cellaring to come into balance. Here at The Ojai Vineyard the aim is different. The varietal’s impressive fruitiness is bright and we strive to preserve its vibrancy. The site yields a striking acidity that is juicy and fresh and the tannins are well integrated and carry just enough power to be true to its origin. The result is a wine of great energy that is very fragrant—it’s an enthusiastic and pure rendition showing the potential for Italian varietals on the central coast. It is delicious now but certainly can age—perhaps like the beautiful high acid and tannic zinfandels made by Adam in the eighties and nineties.

Blend: 100% Sangiovese | Vineyard: White Hawk | AVA: Santa Barbara County | Alcohol: 14% | Vinification: 20% New French Oak Barrel | Aging: 16 Months | Total Production: 112 Cases

Press Reviews

Antonio Galloni’s Vinous

“The 2012 Sangiovese White Hawk Vineyard is fabulous. Cranberry, bright red cherries, smoke and spice notes jump from the glass. There is plenty of depth to match the open, radiant personality of the year. In this vintage, the greater tannic spine of Sangiovese vis-a-vis Pinot extends the finish and adds energy. What a gorgeous wine this is.”- AG 93 Points