The Sebastiani brand has been through many ups and downs including a sale to the Foley Wine Group but they continue to make good, value-priced wines. Hard core fans of robust, tannic Petite Sirah might fine this a bit tame but those being introduced to the grape will enjoy the bold personality paired with a supple, mid-palate mouthfeel.
Abundant aromas of plum, blackberry, black olive, and dry fig wrapped in dusty earth leave a vibrant first impression. Broad-shouldered and firm upfront, the supple mid-palate brings up rich dark chocolate before chiseled tannins gradually assert themselves on the drying, medium-length finish. This wine has a volatile personality, brash and loud at first but showing its good nature underneath, becoming almost languid before its inner toughness reasserts itself.
There is a lot going on for a few bucks.
This blend of 81% Petite Sirah with small percentages of Merlot, Barbera, Tempranillo and Malbec sees oak for 14 months.
Pair with this tough/tender song of destructive love, This Tornado Loves You by Neko Case.
Score: 89
Price: $18 (Purchase Here) but it often sells for considerably less at the supermarket.
Alc: 13.5%
Exploring the Philosophy of Food and Wine 