Stirm - 'Benitoite' - Cabernet Pfeffer Blend - San Benito County, CA - 2022

A blend of three varieties from three different vineyards in San Benito County. Cabernet Pfeffer (51%) from Siletto (Tres Pinos) and Gimelli (Cienega Valley, 120 year old vines), Zinfandel (31%) from Wirz (Cienega Valley, 120 year old vines) and Negrette (18%) from Siletto. All varieties were fermented separately and blended after 18 months of elevage. A mix of whole cluster (about 75%) and destemmed fruit was used between all the lots. Total SO2 at 25 ppm, all the vineyards are farmed organic with the Zinfandel and old vine Pfeffer also being dry-farmed. Named after the state gem of California that is found only in one small mine in remote San Benito County.