Not So Petite Sirah
Petite Sirah (Peh-teet sear-ah)
Don't let the name fool you, it's not just a smaller version of Syrah, but a distinct and unique grape variety with a whole lot of character. Actually, calling such a brawny and impenetrable grape "petite" seems like a bit of an oxymoron.
Imported to America in the mid-1880s, it is a cross between Syrah and the even more rare and almost extinct varietal that only grows in the French Alps. A relatively rare gem, Petite Sirah is loved for its extraordinary inky purple color (a real “teeth-stainer”) and full-bodied flavors of blueberry, chocolate, plums and black pepper. Even with its status as a "popular kid" in the wine world, less than 10,000 acres are planted worldwide, with most growing in California. However, a “petite” amount of vines have taken up residence in Washington’s Columbia Valley AVA, which is exactly where the fruit for our March Club Wine comes from.
2018 La Petite Mort - Petite Sirah
La Petite Mort, French for “the little death,” (you’re gonna want to Google that 👀) this dark and spicy red wine is instantly gratifying, with a boisterous color, peppery aromas, and ornate tannins. A mysterious & moody varietal that is anything but petite. Although we’ve regularly used it in red blends at Evoke, La Petite Mort is the first “stand-alone” bottle of Petite Sirah to roll off the bottling line.
The tight and grippy tannins of this wine make it most likely to benefit from a little tantric breath before being served. So, go ahead and dust off your decanter, pour one out for your homegirl, and let it evolve over the course of 2-4 hours. If you can delay gratification, your patience will be well rewarded with a bouquet of lighter floral aromas that usually get lost when tasted just after opening. Remember, good wines come to those who wait.
*Learn more about how to decant your wines here.
The best thing to do with a wine this bold is to serve it with food that’s just as loud. We recommend pairing La Petite Mort with gorgonzola stuffed mushrooms, spicy chicken mole, and doing whatever makes you feel good. After all, a little pleasure isn’t going to kill you. 😉
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