Tinto Rey means Red King. Tempranillo is the king of Spanish red wines and one of the most important varietals in our Matchbook Vineyard in the Dunnigan Hills. The Spanish varietals Tempranillo and Graciano contribute spicy red berry fruit flavors; Syrah adds rich flavors of black cherry and blueberry; the spicy cedar and tobacco notes are from the cool weather Cabernet Sauvignon; a touch of Petite Sirah pumps up the tannins, the rich color, and adds a little pepper spice.

Blend: 44% Tempranillo, 36% Syrah, 13% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Graciano, 2% Petite Sirah
Production: 6,900 cases

2007 was ideal for us in Dunnigan Hills. The late rains hit after flowering and fruit set and before veraison causing no damage. Warm weather followed allowing us to harvest in late August through early September.

After one day of cold soak, the tank was bled to concentrate the flavors. We pressed off at three to zero Brix after an eight day fermentation to allow brighter, cleaner fruit expression and to avoid heavy tannins. After two aerative rackings, the wine went down to barrel in October 2007. The final blend was created in May of the following year.