2020 Skinner Native Red Blend

2020 Skinner Native Red Blend Is a vibrant and expressive wine that encapsulates the rich viticultural heritage of El Dorado County, California.

Tasting Notes

The 2020 Native Red presents a flirty and mouthwatering profile. Aromas of fresh raspberry and orange peel dominate the nose, complemented by playful notes of sassafras. On the palate, it is vivacious and crunchy, featuring flavors of crushed cranberry, sweet plum, and a hint of passion fruit. The wine is plump and bright, making it delightful to sip.

Food Pairings

This versatile red blend pairs well with a variety of dishes. Its bright acidity and fruit-forward profile make it an excellent companion to grilled meats, roasted poultry, and hearty vegetable dishes. Additionally, it can enhance the flavors of Mediterranean cuisine, such as lamb gyros or tomato-based pasta dishes. Its approachable nature also makes it a delightful choice for casual sipping on a relaxed evening.

Technical Vineyard Information

• Appellation: El Dorado, Sierra Foothills, California.

• Varietal Composition: A co-fermentation of several grape varieties, predominantly from the estate’s Legacy block, including Mission, Petite Bouschet, Trousseau, Carignan, Zinfandel, Cinsault, Grenache, Mourvèdre, Marsanne, and Viognier.

• Viticulture: The vineyard practices organic viticulture with head-pruned vines. The interplanted vines are harvested and co-fermented, reflecting a minimal intervention approach.

• Winemaking: Utilizing native yeast fermentation, the grapes undergo a gentle remontage technique during fermentation, which is less intrusive on the berries and promotes aerobic conditions for the juice. This method encourages high CO₂ production, enhancing and preserving the wine’s aromatic profile. Post-fermentation, the wine is gently pressed, settled, and aged in barrels for 10 months before being racked in the spring and bottled just before the subsequent harvest.