Named for its previous owners, the 100-acre Hallberg Vineyard is now owned and managed by wine industry veterans, including vineyard manager Kirk Lokka. Ensconced in the Green Valley sub-AVA, the site enjoys regular diurnal temperature swings, influenced by the strong maritime influence of the nearby Pacific Ocean; this moderating influence means that the vines don’t completely shut down, helping to produce fruit with deep dark color, great structure, less aggressive tannins, and dark fruit flavors with earthy characteristics. The final blend is a combination of many of the best blocks on this site; the vines are a combination of clones 667, 777, 828, Pommard and an as-yet-unidentified “mystery clone”.

Racked into 40% new French oak barrels for 15 months barrel aging on primary lees.

Color: Deep red/black notes
Aromatics: Hints of cola, black cherries, strawberry jam, and rose petals.
Taste Profile: Rich, full-flavored, but with the structure of a fine Pommard.
Food Pairings: Roast leg of lamb; Ribeye steaks; Veal roast; cheeses such as Brie and Camembert

By Don Clemens