2020 Carmine "Big Red"
Carmine was developed in 1946 at UC Davis by Dr. Harold Olmo. This cross of Cabernet Sauvignon, Carignan, and Merlot was developed to grow in the cooler, coastal regions of California. 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
2020
Varietal
Carmine
Appellation
Yamhill-Carlton
Vineyard Designation
Estate
Harvest Date
October 16
Sugar
22.5 Brix
Acid
6.7 g/L
pH
3.53
Aging
20% new French oak for 18 months
Alcohol %
12.6
Wine Profile
Tasting Notes
Dark garnet in the glass, with aromas of dark fruit. Find black cherries, blueberries, blackberries, and clove, with a hint of capsicum. This wine is earthy and spicy, with plum, black pepper, bright acidity, and grippy tannins. This wine screams for a steak, pasta with red sauce, or a slice of pizza.
Vineyard Notes
Estate vines planted in 1989 and 2001
Production Notes
100 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.