By Clayhouse Wines
2018 Paso Robles Petite Sirah

Vintage Notes
The 2018 vintage experienced a milder yet consistently warm summer, creating an even-keeled growing season that allowed clusters extended hangtime to reach optimal ripeness. Overall yields were average, producing a well-rounded vintage marked by concentration, balance, and expressive fruit character.

Winemaking Notes
The fruit was destemmed into temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks and cold-soaked for three days prior to inoculation with multiple yeast strains selected to enhance complexity. Fermentation proceeded over approximately two weeks, after which the wine was pressed at dryness and inoculated for malolactic fermentation. Aging took place over twelve months in a combination of French and American oak barrels.

Technical Details
Variety: Petite Sirah
pH: 3.76
TA: 6.0 g/L
Alcohol: 14.50%

Tasting Notes
The 2018 Clayhouse Petite Sirah opens with dark, lifted aromatics of blackberry, violets, and gentle herbal spice. The palate is blush yet structured, showing ripe dark fruit layered with savory umami notes and a hint of pepper. Fine-grained, velvety tannins carry through a long, balanced finish with lingering earth and dried herb tones.
[Information provided by Matador Vino]