ABOUT US.............................................................................................................................. 3 LOCATION AND VINEYARD...................................................................................................... 4 THE DEFIANT ONES................................................................................................................. 5 THE WINEMAKER...................................................................................................................... 6 THE VINEYARD........................................................................................................................ 7 ACCOLADES.......................................................................................................................... 8 TECH SHEETS ........................................................................................................................ 9+
Table of Contents
INFO@DEFIANCEVINEYARD.COM | 805.591.4557 | 5650 Calle Las Colinas, Creston, CA 93432
Quick Reference
WINEMAKERS: Brianna Carroll and Erin Faulkner ESTABLISHED: 2012 LAUNCHED WINE: 2020 APPELLATION: Creston District, Paso Robles AVA HOURS: Thursday-Sunday Appointment only PROPRIETORS: Bill and Cheryl Faulkner OWNERS: Bill, Cheryl, Erin, and Brian Faulkner ADDRESS: 5650 Calle Las Colinas, Creston, CA 93432 WEBSITE: www.defiancevineyard.com IG: @defiancevineyard TELEPHONE:805.591.4557 EMAIL: info@defiancevineyard.com MEDIA CONTACT: Vincenta Faulkner, 925.360.8133 vincenta@defiancevineyard.com
The name Defiance holds a dual meaning. It is both a reference to the Faulkner family’s symbol of a falcon and the bold spirit that guides the brand. Founded in 2012, Defiance Vineyard is a boutique vineyard nestled to the east of Paso Robles, and is known in the area for growing premium Petite Sirah and Bordeaux varieties. Its terrior offers a diurnal temperature swing, providing optimal growing conditions, coveted by others in the region. Dedicated to sustainability, Defiance Vineyard is all farmed and harvested by hand with the utmost attention to detail. The result is their grapes are featured in many well-known wines: Defiance, Daou, Ecluse, Dilecta, Emercy, Sinegal, Sunstone, Pali, and Ladron Cellars. In September 2020 Defiance Vineyard announced the launching of its estate wine, after seeing their perfectly concentrated and coveted fruit produce wines full of richness and natural balance.The Estate portfolio includes: Petite Sirah, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, and Malbec varieties.
About us
Location and Vineyard
Rolling hills give way to a hidden sanctuary anchored by gates bearing the symbol of a falcon. A lush, artisanal, 50-acre vineyard can be seen on the 100-acre property. The incline up the driveway is lined with sycamore trees leading to a plateau upon which a French inspired Châtaeu sits with 360 degree views of picturesque countryside. The elevation spans to 1500’, where the pristine rows of Modified VSP Bordeaux varieties and 4 ft.head-trained Petite Sirah vines are planted on North/South facing slopes. The immaculate vineyard and outdoor patio, shaded by wisteria, provide an ideal setting and for private, personalized tastings of Defiance’s hand crafted Petite Sirah and Bordeaux varieties.The on-site tasting room, set to open in 2022, appears comfortable yet upscale with a cozy fireplace, and its modern twist on french country living.
The vineyard is run and operated by the Faulkner family, drawing on each individuals passion and expertise. It is a culmination of years of hard work, as all of the infrastructure and facilities were also built by the family. The Faulkners began their journey to become a premier producer of the highest quality wine grapes with a blank canvas. They chose the rolling hills nestled behind the small town of Creston based on the weather, water, structure of the land and the quality of the linne calodo terroir, an ancient substrate of sedimentary rock and deposits of Limestone, Sandstone, Calcarous Clays, and Clay Loam. Both Bill and Cheryl come from families in the horse and oil industries in Southern California and became interested in the wine industry while building the Athens Airport in Greece. With their children, they developed Defiance Vineyard in 2012 and launched Defiance Wine in 2020. The three sisters, Erin, Brianna, and Vincenta, run this women led wine brand, both promoting women in business and in the wine industry.
The Faulkner Family
The defiant ones
Brianna Carroll is the Winemaker for Defiance Vineyard. Her style is unmistakable as she blends traditional and non-invasive techniques with cutting-edge innovation while allowing the fruit of the vineyard to shine. Brianna's inspiration is a blend of art and science stemming from her studies at UC Davis, and mentorship she has received from celebrated winemakers in the industry. Her meticulous oversight of the chemistry and protocols ensure each vintage embodies the highest standards of quality and authenticity, producing a well defined and distinct wine.
ERIN FAULKNER
the winemakerS
WINEMAKER
Nobody knows the vineyard quite like Erin Faulkner, as she is the Operations & Vineyard Manager for Defiance Vineyard. Erin knows the story of the grapes, and is able to think creatively about each vintage as she collaborates with her sister and winemaker Brianna about blends and processes for the straight variatals.
Brianna Carroll
HEAD OF OPERATIONS
THE VINEYARD
Through careful stewardship of the land and its resources, Defiance delivers a luxury product.
Block 1 Cabernet Sauvignon Block 2 Cabernet Sauvignon Block 3 Cabernet Franc Block 4 Petite Verdot Block 5 Malbec Block 6 Petite Sirah Block 7 Petite Sirah Block 8 Cabernet Sauvignon Block 9 Cabernet Sauvignon Block 10 Cabernet Sauvignon
Sustainable And Organic Practices
bLOCK MAP
No herbicides Cane pruning Weed control via hand and Clemens Organic cow manure compost Macro- & micronutrient repletion RDI for optimal canopy and berry size Cover crop rotation Hand pruned, hand picked Modified VSP and head trained Limited yields
2023 Wine Enthusiast 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon, 91 points, Cellar Selection 2018 Whipper In, 91 points 2019 Malbec, 91 points 2019 Cabernet Franc, 91 points 2019 Petite Sirah, 93 points 2019 Whipper In, 91 points 2023 Vinous 2019 Whipper In, 91 points 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon, 90 points 2019 Petite Sirah, 91 points 2022 Sunset Magazine International Wine Competition 2019 Breach, Gold, 93 points 2020-2021 Sommelier Challenge International Wine and Spirits Competition: 2017 Petite Sirah, Platinum, 95 points, Best in Class | Best Petite Sirah 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon, Gold, 90 points 2018 Whipper In , Bordeaux Blend, Gold , 92 points 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon, Gold, 93 points 2020 Malbec Rose, Gold, 90 points 2021-2023 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition 2019 Malbec Rosé, Gold 2019 Cabernet Franc, Double Gold 2019 Malbec, Double Gold 2021-2022 Monterey International Wine Competition: 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon, Platinum, 94 points 2018 Petite Sirah, Gold, 90 points 2018 Cabernet Franc, Gold, 91 points 2021 Central Coast Wine Competition 2018 Whipper In, Bordeaux Blend, Gold
accolades
the wine
The Defiance Malbec Rosé has proven that Malbec is a contemporary and unexpected choice with its ongoing high ratings and yearly awards. Our latest release will have you intrigued. The grapes are from our estate Malbec Block V and were harvested early as an intentional rosé at a brix of 21.5. They were fermented in 100% Stainless Steel and bottled in early March 2023. The 2022 Malbec Rosé has pretty notes of white peach, honeysuckle, granite, pear, and marzipan on the nose. Subtle stone fruit suspended by a bright thread of acidity that carries the flavors well into the finish. Upscale yet unpretentious, this Rosé is modern elegance in a glass.
Varietal Composition: Malbec, Estate Block V Appellation: Paso Robles Bottling Data: Stainless Steel 13.0% ABV Release Date: March 2023 Suggested Retail: $32.00
the vintage
In 2022, our fruit matured beautifully on a 15 degree south facing slope at 1000 feet elevation. The vines enjoyed a cool winter with ample rain leading into a shy spring, with a later bud break. The conditions during flowering were average, and yields were smaller than average. The grapes endured an especially hot summer followed by a warm fall with our notably cool nights. Harvest began in mid September for this early harvest Rosé. Crushing operations went smoothly. Bottling was completed on schedule.
white peach, pear, honeysuckle, granite, marzipan
2022 Malbec roSE
Our latest release will have you intrigued. The grapes are from our estate Malbec Block V and were harvested early as an intentional rosé at a brix of 21.5. They were fermented in 100% Stainless Steel and bottled in early February 2021. The 2020 Malbec Rosé has pretty notes of strawberry, melon, pomegranate, and marzipan on the nose. Red fruit compote suspended by a bright thread of acidity that carries the flavors well into the finish. Upscale yet unpretentious, this Rosé is modern elegance in a glass.
In 2020, our fruit matured beautifully on a 15 degree south facing slope at 1000 feet elevation. The vines enjoyed a cool winter with ample rain leading into a shy spring, with a later bud break. The conditions during flowering were average, and yields were smaller than average. The grapes endured a typically hot summer followed by a warm fall with our notably cool nights. Harvest began in mid September and was completed by mid October. Crushing operations went smoothly. Bottling dates were challenging due to COVID-19 restrictions, though it did not impact the quality or complexity of the wines.
2020 Malbec roSE
Varietal Composition: Malbec, Estate Block V Appellation: Paso Robles Bottling Data: Stainless Steel 13.0% ABV Release Date: July 2021 Awards: 92 points | Gold Medal 2021 Int'l Wine Competition Suggested Retail: $30.00
strawberry, melon, pomegranate, marzipan
The 2019 Malbec Rosé is our first rosé and is part of our initial launch series. The grapes are from our estate Malbec Block V and were harvested early as an intentional rosé at a brix of 21.5. They were fermented in 100% Stainless Steel and bottled in early June. At 13% alcohol the 2019 Malbec Rosé is elegantly structured and desirable. This vintage is perfectly pink due to the grape variety and minimal additives, letting the fruit speak for itself. It is a bit floral on the nose, with hints of strawberry, white peach, and a subtle touch of pomegranate accentuating the natural acid and minerality. It pairs well with light or fried foods, like crab cakes, fried chicken with crème fraîche and strawberry garnish.
strawberry, white peach, pomegranate, elderflower
Varietal Composition: Malbec, Estate Block V Appellation: Paso Robles Bottling Data: Stainless Steel 13.0% ABV Release Date: August 2020 Awards: Gold Medal 2021 SF Chronicle Suggested Retail: $30.00
2019 Malbec roSe
In 2019, our fruit matured beautifully on a 15 degree south facing slope at 1000 feet elevation. The vines enjoyed a cool winter with ample rain leading into a shy spring, with a later bud break. The conditions during flowering were average, and did not limit yields. The grapes endured a typically hot summer followed by a warm fall with our notably cool nights. Harvest began in early September with our intentional rosé. Crushing operations went smoothly. Bottling dates were challenging due to COVID-19 restrictions, though it did not impact the quality or complexity of the wines.
dark cherry, dried berry, cracked pepper, aged wood, cigar bos
2019 Cabernet Franc
the Vintage
This medium bodied red is opulent and fruit forward. You may find it in many blends, but Cab Franc is truly a star on its own, and is our most cherished small cropped variety. The vineyard boasts a mixture of sedimentary rock and Calcarous clay with deposits of limestone, this linne calodo soil highlights the richness in the fruit producing structured wines, like this Cabernet. Dark cherry and aged wood aromas invite the nose into this bottling. There is a tense texture to the palate right away, with waves of cigar box, dried berry and cracked pepper flavors. The leathery tannins pull into the finish, ensuring decent cellar potential.
Varietal Composition: Cabernet Franc Estate Block VI Appellation: Paso Robles Bottling Data: 18 months in barrel 50% New French Oak Alcohol 14.5% by volume Release Date: November 2022 Awards: Double Gold Medal 2023 SF Chronicle 91 points | Wine Enthusiast Suggested Retail: $48.00
A new addition to our wine line up is our Estate Cabernet Franc. This medium bodied red is opulent and fruit forward. You may find it in many blends, but Cab Franc is truly a star on its own, and is our most cherished small cropped variety. The 2018 Cabernet Franc hints of bittersweet chocolate, dried strawberry, and blackberry with aromas of lavender and talc, that create a magnificent thoughtful wine of structure and sophistication. This wine is truly romantic and forward thinking, just like our family!
Varietal Composition: Cabernet Franc Estate Block 3 Appellation: Paso Robles Bottling Data: 23 months in barrel 50% New French Oak Alcohol 13% by volume Release Date: April 2021 Awards: 91 points | Gold Medal 2022 Int'l Wine Competition Suggested Retail: $52.00
bittersweet chocolate, dried strawberry, blackberry, lavender, talc
In 2018, we had an overall great year. It started with a wet winter with higher rain than seasons past, which continued to early spring. A warm spring followed, with intermittent showers which encouraged an early bud break. With all the rain, the vines were vigorous and required expert canopy management. The summer came in hot with record breaking heat, multiple days were seen over 104 degrees, which lead to an early verasion in late July. We began an early harvest in September and completed by early October as things cooled off and a balanced brix and acidity was achieved.
2018 CABERNET franc
Varietal Composition: Malbec Estate Block V Appellation: Paso Robles Bottling Data: 22 months in barrel 50% New French Oak Alcohol 14% by volume Release Date: April 2022 Awards: 91 points | Wine Enthusiast Double Gold Medal 2023 SF Chronicle Suggested Retail: $48.00
strawberry, ripe blackberry, earth, vanilla
This wine speaks to the Paso Robles terroir, and our linnea colado gives it great structure. Like all Defiance wine has a French influence, and this Malbec is more savory, tart with firmer tannins and blackberry as opposed to the Argentinian style which is more fruit-forward plum and velvety. All grapes were hand selected from the estate block VI and aged in half new French oak and half neutral oak. This wine is aromatic, with notes of strawberry, dark fruits, earth, and vanilla. Rich and balanced with a tremendous mid palette. It has bright acid, is full bodied, with medium tannins that will continue to evolve, and soften. There's a meaty, unctuous angle to the nose of this bottling, where oak-smoked berry aromas meet with pencil shavings. Chiseled tannins frame the sip, which is packed with cassis and milk chocolate leading into a grippy finish.—Matt Kettmann
2019 Malbec
2019 Cabernet Sauvignon
cherry, black currant, sage, cedar, cigar box, vanilla
Varietal Composition: Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Block VI Appellation: Paso Robles Bottling Data: 18 months in barrel 50% New French Oak 14.5% ABV Release Date: November 2022 Awards: 90 points | Vinous Suggested Retail: $58.00
The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon is sumptuous and savory. It is Dry, full bodied, with medium acid, and medium-high tannins. The vineyard boasts a mixture of sedimentary rock and Calcarous clay with deposits of limestone, this linne calodo soil highlights the richness in the fruit producing structured wines, like this Cabernet. Cigar box and deep cherry-cedar aroma, followed by a elegant and layered depth of flavor of black currant followed by sage and cedar. A Cabernet like this can pair with just about anything. We like it with garlic rosemary potatoes and chicken marsala with dried porcini mushrooms.
2018 CABERNET SAUVIGNON
The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon is precocious, and is the big, bold, and beautiful Cabernet that reminds you of why you began your wine journey. Concentrated aromas of blackberry hide behind a veil of dark wood and crushed stone on the nose of this age worthy bottling. Tense tannins make for a firm palate, with blackberry, smoked meat and peppery spice flavors clinging to the tight texture. We pair this Cabernet with steak pom frites, or a slow braised venison. Although, we find it is also quite perfect with a cheese and charcuterie plate.
Varietal Composition: Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Block I Appellation: Paso Robles Bottling Data: 23 months in barrel 60% New French Oak 13.5% ABV Release Date: April 2021 Awards: 93 points | Gold Medal 2021 Int'l Wine Competition 91 points | Cellar Select Wine Enthusiast Suggested Retail: $68.00
blackberry, pepper spice, smoked meat, dark wood, crushed stone
Our Cabernet Sauvignon, matured beautifully on a 19 degree south facing slope with an elevation of 1200 feet. The year started with a wet winter with higher rain than seasons past, which continued to early spring. A warm spring followed, with intermittent showers which encouraged an early bud break. With all the rain, the vines were vigorous and required expert canopy management. The summer came in hot with record breaking heat, multiple days were seen over 104 degrees, which lead to an early verasion in late July. We began harvest October as things cooled off and a balanced brix and acidity was achieved. The cool nights helped balance the ripeness and acidity which is what produces that big, bold, dark fruit flavor Paso Cab's are known for.
Our Cabernet Sauvignon, matured beautifully on a 19 degree south facing slope with an elevation of 1200 feet. In 2016, we had an overall warm year. It started with a warmer winter with minimal but adequate rain. The spring was warm with an early bud break which was followed by a cool period that prolonged the flowering season without too much shatter. The summer was also warm leading to a normal verasion. That warmth carried on through the fall and when it cooled down we had a typical harvest in late September and early November. The cool nights helped balance the ripeness and acidity which is what produces that big, bold, dark fruit flavor Paso Cab's are known for.
2016 CABERNET SAUVIGNON
Varietal Composition: Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Block I Appellation: Paso Robles Bottling Data: 23 months in barrel 100% New French Oak 14.5% ABV 28 cases produced Release Date: August 2020 Awards: 94 points | Platinum Medal Monterey International Suggested Retail: $125.00
black currant, cherry, allspice, leather
The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon is daring with bright acidity and an opulent texture. All grapes were hand selected from our Estate Block I. They were aged in 100% New French Oak, which complements the distinct notes of black current, cherry, spice and leather. This Cabernet is the most beguiling expression of the Paso Cab, making it ready to drink tonight or saved for that dinner to remember. Pair with potato truffle pizza, pasta bolognese, or filet mignon. This special wine is part of our initial launch series and was awarded 94 points from the Monterey International Wine Competition .
This is the first vintage from our estate. In 2015, we had 10 acres planted consisting of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. While 2015 had low yields overall, our first harvest was purposefully a small crop. We limited the vines to a 1 ton harvest, to allow them to mature. The winter had less than average rains uniform with the years of drought and although the yields were small, the cool summer allowed the fruit to hang on the vines longer, creating a concentrated flavor. Harvest was mid October.
2015 CABERNET SAUVIGNON
Defiance’s maiden voyage into winemaking, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon boasts perfectly harmonized tannins, acid, and alcohol that sing in unison and never upstage each other. Handpicked from our first crop in Block 1 and aged for 23 months in 100% French Oak, this wine offers notes of cherry, black currant, vanilla, and green peppercorn. Pairs with a progressive dinner, starting with an arugala, beet and goat cheese salad, followed by a filet mignon, and ending with flourless chocolate cake.
Varietal Composition: Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Block I Appellation: Paso Robles Bottling Data: 23 months in barrel 100% New French Oak 14.5% ABV Limited Cases Release Date: August 2020 Suggested Retail: $ 125.00
cherry, black currant, vanilla, green peppercorn
Varietal Composition: 40% Cabernet Sauvignon 30% Petite Verdot 20% Cabernet Franc 10% Malbec Appellation: Paso Robles Bottling Data: 23 months in barrel 40% New French Oak 13.5% ABV Release Date: March 2023 Awards: 91 points | Vinous 91 points | Wine Enthusiast Suggested Retail: $62.00
2019 Whipper In
blackberry, herbs de Provence, leather, cherry, plum
Our second vintage of our first in the Defiant Blend Series and tribute to Proprietor and Dad, Bill Faulkner, this Bordeaux Blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, and Cabernet Franc keeps it namesake as it is evokes characteristics of all who are defiant: bold, intelligent, structured, fierce and unique. The name Whipper-In comes from the Faulkner Family’s love and history with horses. The painting pictured on the bottle label is Bill as a young man, and former president of the West Hills Hunt Club from a news clipping in the LA times. This wine encompasses the best of the vineyard with notes of blackberry, herb de Provence, leather, cherries, and plums. The lushness and acidity provide staying power in the mouth with interest that never disappoints. Defiant meets Refinement.
Our first in the Defiant Blend Series and tribute to Proprietor and Dad, Bill Faulkner, this Bordeaux Blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, and Cabernet Franc keeps it namesake as it is evokes characteristics of all who are defiant: bold, intelligent, structured, fierce and unique. The name Whipper-In comes from the Faulkner Family’s love and history with horses. The painting pictured on the bottle label is Bill as a young man, and former president of the West Hills Hunt Club. In traditional fox hunting, there are several hunt staff and officials.Two of which are the Huntsman, and the Whipper-in. The Huntsman is in charge of directing the hounds, while the Whipper-in's main job is to keep the pack all together. We have our own Whipper-in, and we made one to share. Our first Bordeaux Blend, shared with friends or family, will most definitely result in keeping the pack together This wine encompasses the best of the vineyard, dense in the glass and dry on the nose, this blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc offers leather, dried meat, charcoal and blackberry aromas. A cigar-box flavor runs through the palate, which also offers baked red-fruit, anise and gingerbread flavors.
The year started with a wet winter with higher rain than seasons past, which continued to early spring. A warm spring followed, with intermittent showers which encouraged an early bud break. With all the rain, the vines were vigorous and required expert canopy management. The summer came in hot with record breaking heat, multiple days were seen over 104 degrees, which lead to an early verasion in late July. We began harvest October as things cooled off and a balanced brix and acidity was achieved.
blackberry, baked red fruit, anise, gingerbread, leather, charcoal
Varietal Composition: 50% Cabernet Sauvignon 30% Petite Verdot 20% Cabernet Franc Appellation: Paso Robles Bottling Data: 23 months in barrel 40% New French Oak Alcohol 13.5% by volume Release Date: April 2021 Awards: 92 points | Gold 2021 Central Coast 91 points Wine Enthusiast Suggested Retail: $65.00
2018 Whipper- in
blackberry, acai, violet, chalk
2019 Breach
In 2019, the vines enjoyed a cool winter, with ample rain, leading into a shy spring, with a later bud break. The conditions during flowering were average, and did not limit yields. The grapes endured a typically hot summer followed by a warm fall with our notably cool nights. Breach is a blend of our Petit Verdot Estate Block 4 and Petite Sirah Block 7. Each block was harvested and fermented separately with blending completed prior to bottling. Packaging was our first in our move to environmentally friendly, recycled bottles with screw caps.
Varietal Composition: 50% Petite Sirah 50% Petit Verdot Appellation: Paso Robles Bottling Data: 20 months in barrel 50% New French Oak Alcohol 14.5% by volume Release Date: May 2022 Awards: 93 points | Gold Medal 2022 Sunset Magazine Int'l Wine Competition Suggested Retail: $38.00
Dark, tart aromas of blackberry and violet show on the nose of this blend of 50% Petite Sirah and 50% Petit Verdot. The palate is vibrant with acai and violet flavors, proving quite bold and fruity, with a tangy finish. The 20 months in new french oak soften the bold tannins. This Petite Petit blend is not delicate or dainty, it's a breakthrough from the ordinary. Blending these high tannin fruit forward grapes, is a challenge that Defiance once again rose to the occasion for. The painting on the label, "Breach" by Rocco Grassano embodies the bold family spirit guiding Defiance Vineyard and inspiring this unique blend.
The 2019 vintage like our 2017, has a real balance of acidity and fruit with the level of tannin. This is a winning combination that makes this wine balanced, but also extremely age-able. The 2019 Petite Sirah is inky, showcasing the antioxidant rich fruit and expresses those dark berries, blueberry and blackberry, hints of black pepper and crushed rocks with a mid-palate onset of bold mouth-drying tannins. This wine pairs well rich foods like aged gouda, or camembert, or sauteed mushrooms and caramelized onions, chicken in a mole sauce, or roasted pork.
Varietal Composition: Petite Sirah Estate Block VI Appellation: Paso Robles Bottling Data: 22 months in barrel 50% American Oak 14.5% ABV Release Date: March 2023 Awards: 91 points | Vinous Suggested Retail: $42.00
blueberries, sugar plum, dark cocoa, black pepper, crushed gravel
2019 PETITE SIRAH
2018 Petite Sirah
cassis, black plum. dried basil, licorice, caramel
Our 2017 Petite Sirah has received so much praise, and our 2018 has exceeded our expectations so far. As the vineyard continues to produce outstanding Petite Sirah fruit, the dedication to the vines truly speaks though the glass. All grapes were hand selected from the estate block VI and aged in half new American oak and half neutral oak. This wine is aromatic, with notes of blueberry, dark chocolate, and tobacco. It has a firm mouth feel, full bodied, and fruit forward with elevated tannins that will calm with age. It is an enjoyable change up for big bodied Cab lovers. It pairs well with grilled meats, lamb, savory vegetable dishes and mushrooms. However, we really enjoy a congruent pairing with a decedent chocolate cake topped with mascarpone and blackberries.
Varietal Composition: Petite Sirah Estate Block VI Appellation: Paso Robles Bottling Data: 18 months in barrel 50% New American Oak 14.5% ABV Release Date: April 2021 Awards: 90 points | Gold Medal 2022 Monterey Int'l Wine Competition Suggested Retail: $42.00
Our Petite Sirah matured beautifully on head trained vines, with 19 degree south facing slope with an elevation of 900 feet. The year started with a wet winter with higher rain than seasons past, which continued to early spring. A warm spring followed, with intermittent showers which encouraged an early bud break. With all the rain, the vines were vigorous and required expert canopy management. The summer came in hot with record breaking heat, multiple days were seen over 104 degrees, which lead to an early verasion in late July. We began harvest October as things cooled off and a balanced brix and acidity was achieved. The cool nights helped balance the ripeness and acidity which is what produces that big, bold, dark fruit flavor.
dark chocolate, vanilla, blueberries, blackberries, black currant, sugar plum
With admiration to the heritage of the Paso Robles Petite Sirah, the 2017 portrays our dedication to hand craftsmanship and love of our land. This award winning Petite speaks to the truest expression of the fruit. With aromatics of blueberries and blackberries, pushing through lovely dark chocolate and vanilla, the tannins are soft, resolved and beautifully balanced, that stand at attention even though they are as soft as a cashmere blanket. Bring this wine to your next dinner party, it is an enjoyable change up for big Bodied Cab lovers. "Defiance has tamed the beast that is your typical Petite Sirah, which can be wickedly tannic at times. This one has ample tannins but they are nicely integrated, ripe and supple, and don’t diminish the beautiful blueberry, blackberry and black currant notes that make this Petite Sirah so impressive." Robert Whitley, Sep 15, 2020
Varietal Composition: Petite Sirah, Estate Block VI Appellation: Paso Robles Bottling Data: 18 months in barrel 50% New American Oak Alcohol 14.5% by volume Release Date: August 2020 Awards: 95 points | Platinum Medal Best in Class | Best in Show Suggested Retail: $65.00
2017 PETITE SIRAH
Our Petite Sirah is so special, due to the fact it is head trained on a 12 degree south facing slope with an elevation of 950 feet. In 2017, we had 4 distinct seasons, contrary to the typical California seasons. Winter brought us ample rain that filled our water basins. A warm spring followed, with intermittent showers which encouraged an early bud break. With all the rain, the vines were vigorous and required a good deal of canopy management. The head trained vines benefited greatly from all the growth and hand care. The summer came in hot with record breaking heat, which lead to an early verasion in late July leading to early ripening in some varieties through August. We began an early harvest at the end of September and completed by mid October as things had cooled off and a balanced brix and acidity was achieved.
This is a classic expression of petite sirah, deep in color and bold in tannins. First harvest of our estate fruit, this vintage is dry, full bodied, and medium acid. Notes of dark fruit, blackberry, blueberry with a spice of black pepper pop on the palate. This wine pairs with beef short ribs, roasted lamb, and stroganoff. Finish dinner with a pairing of chocolate gelato. This is the Petite Sirah for the Petite Sirah lover.
over-ripe blackberry, blueberry, black pepper,
Varietal Composition: Petite Sirah Estate Block I Appellation: Paso Robles Bottling Data: 23 months in barrel 100% New American Oak 14.5% ABV Limited Cases Release Date: August 2020 Suggested Retail: $62.00
2016 Petite Sirah
Head trained vines matured beautifully on a 19 degree south facing slope with an elevation of 900 feet. In 2016, we had an overall warm year. It started with a warmer winter with minimal but adequate rain. The spring was warm with an early bud break which was followed by a cool period that prolonged the flowering season without too much shatter. The summer was also warm leading to a normal verasion. That warmth carried on through the fall and when it cooled down we had a typical harvest in late September and early November. The cool nights helped balance the ripeness and acidity which is what produces that big, bold, dark fruit flavor Paso is known for.