Birichino Bechthold Vineyard Cinsault Old Vines 2023

Birichino, run by Alex Krause and John Locke, sources this Cinsault from the historic Bechthold Vineyard, where the vines are among the oldest of their kind. The sandy soils and coastal influence of the Santa Cruz region keep the fruit fresh, and the wide day-to-night temperature swing holds acidity, so the wine stays light at 12.5 percent. Cinsault naturally gives low tannin and bright red fruit, and the team works with minimal intervention and native yeasts to keep that lift. Ageing for ten months in used French oak allows slow oxygen exchange and rounds the texture without adding new wood flavour. The wine is pale ruby with aromas of red berries, cherry and crushed rose over dried herbs and a peppery note. The palate is light bodied with fresh acidity, soft tannin and a savoury, faintly earthy finish. Serve at 13 to 15 degrees, lightly chilled, in a wide glass. It suits roast chicken, duck and lighter pork dishes.