2018 Carmine "Big Red"
Carmine was developed in 1946 at UC Davis by Dr. Harold Olmo. This cross of Cabernet Sauvignon, Carignan, and Merlot was created to grow in California's cooler coastal regions. Olmo's vision never caught on as intended, and in the 1970s, these vines traveled north to Courting Hill Vineyard in Banks, Oregon. The vineyard owner, and Oregon wine legend Jim Leyden, introduced Keith Kramer to this grape variety, gifting him our first Carmine vines in 1989. Our plantings have grown to just over an acre, and it's been reported that we're the largest producer of this wine in the United States.
In Stock
Wine Specs
Vintage
2018
Varietal
Carmine
Appellation
Yamhill-Carlton
Vineyard Designation
Estate
Harvest Date
October 2018
Sugar
23.9 Brix
Acid
6.4 g/L
pH
3.44
Aging
20% new French oak for 18 months
Alcohol %
13.4
Wine Profile
Tasting Notes
Deep garnet in the glass with aromas of black cherry, blueberry, blackberry, and hints of clove and capsicum. On the palate, this wine is earthy and spicy, with cola, dark plum, savory spices, and grippy tannins that demand the presence of a steak, pot roast, lasagne, or eggplant parmesan.
Vineyard Notes
Estate vines planted in 1989 and 2001
Production Notes
125 cases
Food Pairing Notes
This wine will cellar for 10-12 years; decant if consumed young. Serve with braised beef, roasted lamb, hard cheese, or Italian cuisine.