2009 Hendry Block 24 Primitivo Wine

Hendry Block 24 is located on bench lands west of the town of Napa. This 1.96 acre block is approximately 200 feet above sea level and has thin, stony Boomer series soils. The maritime climate is moderated by morning fog and strong afternoon breezes from San Pablo Bay. The vines were planted in 1997 using St. George roots and grafted with U.C.D. Primitivo Clone 3. The vines are spaced 6.9' x 5', cordon trained and spur pruned. A vertical trellis system supports the cordon and the canopy. Average production is 3.5 tons per acre and the average harvest dates are between September 15 and September 20.

In 2009, the median bud break in Block 24 occurred April 5. Median bloom was May 28 and median veraison was August 4. Harvest was September 15 with a an average yield of 3.45 tons per acre. The alcoholic fermentation was completed in approximately ten days in closed stainless steel fermentation tanks. After completing alcoholic fermentation, the wine was pressed and put into barrels for malolactic fermentation. Aging was fifteen months in 100% French oak barrels, of which approximately one-third were new.

Rich, enticing berry aromas. Juicy, tasty blueberry and blackberry fruit on the palate. Forward fruit. There is a very slight increase in the balance of tannins, which are still fine-grained, making this wine more versatile for food pairings with slightly heavier, richer dishes. Primitivo, with its full, forward fruit and moderate tannins, is typically a great partner for hard cheeses or dark chocolate, but it's also a great glass of wine by itself at the beginning or end of the evening. The most popular wine in our tasting room.

Alcohol is 15.6 %
384 cases produced