Birichino Scylla Assemblage 2022

Birichino, the Santa Cruz project of Alex Krause and John Locke, builds the Scylla Assemblage from Carignan, Grenache and Mourvèdre grown across several old vineyards farmed with respect for the land. The cool, coastal mountains and their wide diurnal range slow ripening and keep acidity firm, so the blend stays balanced at 13 percent rather than turning heavy. The old vines give concentrated, low yielding fruit, and minimal intervention winemaking with native yeasts preserves the savoury, mineral character the team looks for. Twelve months in used French oak allow gentle oxygen exchange that softens the tannin and adds texture without new wood flavour. The wine is deep ruby with aromas of dark plum and red berries over black pepper, dried herbs and a leathery, earthy note. The palate is medium to full bodied with firm but ripe tannin, fresh acidity and a savoury, faintly liquorice finish. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees in a large glass, with a short decant. It pairs with grilled red meat, lamb and aged cheese.