Region and Vineyards
The Clarksburg AVA, located in California’s Sacramento Delta, is renowned for its ideal conditions for Petite Sirah. This region benefits from a Mediterranean climate, with warm days moderated by cool breezes from the nearby rivers and the San Francisco Bay. These temperature variations allow the grapes to ripen fully while retaining their natural acidity, creating wines with depth and balance.
Petite Sirah has been at the heart of Bogle Vineyards since 1968, when the family first planted this grape on their Clarksburg estate. Known as the “heritage varietal” of Bogle, Petite Sirah thrives in the region’s rich, alluvial soils, which promote excellent drainage and concentration in the fruit. The old vines, with their low yields, produce berries that are intensely flavored and deeply pigmented, ideal for crafting wines of great color, structure, and complexity.
Winemaking
The 2021 Bogle Petite Sirah is carefully vinified to preserve its bold, varietal character while ensuring balance and approachability. After hand-harvesting the grapes at optimal ripeness, fermentation takes place under temperature control, allowing for a gentle extraction of color and tannins.
The wine is then aged for 12 months in American oak barrels, a deliberate choice that imparts layers of vanilla, black pepper, and subtle spices to complement the natural fruit intensity of Petite Sirah. This extended barrel aging also helps soften the wine’s robust tannins, resulting in a smooth, velvety texture that makes it enjoyable both in its youth and with further aging.
Tasting Notes
- Color: Inky purple with deep ruby highlights, showcasing its concentration.
- Aroma: Inviting notes of blue fruits, including ripe boysenberry and blueberry, leap from the glass, accompanied by hints of spice and black pepper.
- Palate: Rich and full-bodied, with layers of blackberry, plum, and subtle notes of toasted oak. The wine is well-structured, with soft yet firm tannins, lingering spice, and a long, textured finish.
Did You Know?
Petite Sirah was the first red grape planted by the Bogle family in 1968, marking the beginning of their journey in California’s Clarksburg region. Often referred to as “Durif” in France, Petite Sirah is celebrated for its ability to produce wines of deep color, bold tannins, and exceptional aging potential.
Wine Pairing Ideas
- Smoked lamb shoulder with rosemary: The wine’s bold tannins and ripe fruit flavors balance the rich, smoky character of the lamb.
- Braised short ribs with blackberry barbecue sauce: The dark fruit notes in the wine enhance the sweet and savory flavors of the ribs.
- Grilled portobello mushrooms with balsamic glaze: The earthiness of the mushrooms pairs beautifully with the wine’s structure and spice.
- Smoked gouda cheese: The creamy, smoky flavors of the cheese harmonize with the wine’s richness and oak influence.
