Keplinger 'Vermillion' Red Blend 2021

Region: Santa Barbara, California, USA
Grape(a): Grenache, Mourvedre, Syrah, Petite Sirah
Winemaker: Helen Keplinger
Drinks Best: Now - 5 Years

Inspired by her father’s cellar and her mother’s penchant for pairing wine with their nightly family dinners, wine has played an important role in Helen Keplinger’s life since she was a child. Now Helen produces terroir-driven, versatile wines perfect for pairing or simply for sipping. For her Vermillion project, she sources grapes from small, thoughtfully farmed vineyards in California, and vinifies with traditional methods. Aging in French oak imparts a softer spicy flavor. A persistent nose of black fruit, licorice, and fresh cracked pepper is followed by a juicy, velvety palate of black cherry and herbs. Big, structured tannins finish this Rhone-inspired blend with length and precision.

Pairings: Pan-seared Rib-eye with Bearnaise and shoestring fries