Ripe red cherry nose with a smidgen of cocoa powder and cigar wrapper. The juicy cherry/raspberry flavors jump out. Classic Sangiovese flavors of cola, white pepper and tobacco complement the fruit. Fine, firm tannins, medium acidity on the palate. Finish is long, becoming more lush and rich. Aged in “neutral” French oak, allowing the fruit and vineyard to shine. This is all from “Solari Vineyard” in Calistoga, northern Napa Valley.
601 Cellars is owned and made by husband/wife Brian Doody and Laura Larson. Their focus is on Napa Valley Sangiovese but they “dabble” in other regions (like their Sierra Foothills Sangio) and other grapes. I’m impressed with the quality of the wines particularly because they (particularly Brian who heads the winemaking) is self-taught.
For all my 601 Cellars review, go here.
