2021 Girard Petite Sirah

81% Petite Sirah, 17% Zinfandel and 2% Mixed Blacks. Aged for 14 months in a mix of American, French, and Hungarian oak barrels (40% new). American oak can bring savory spice and bass notes. French oak can smooth edges and add polish. Hungarian oak often lands in a sweet spot - aromatic lift and spice, but with a different shape than either French or American. In the glass, it’s the kind of impenetrable purple-black that makes you wonder if light is legally allowed to pass through it. The aromatics lean into dark fruit and spice: blackberry, black plum, hints of tobacco and toasted barrel character, plus a savory, dusty earth tone that keeps it grounded. On the palate it’s full-bodied and structured, with bold, ripe tannins and a long finish that reads dark-fruited, spicy, and slightly mocha-tinged. This is powerful wine, but it’s not sloppy power - it’s composed.