2009 Sbragia Family Vineyards Teldeschi Vineyard Petite Sirah

Sbragia Family Vineyards is in Geyserville. It was founded in 2001 by Ed Sbragia, a long-time Napa Valley winemaker who made wine for several decades at Beringer. Sbragia, the grandson of immigrants from Tuscany, grew up in Dry Creek Valley where is father grew Zinfandel grapes. Sbragia runs the estate with his wife and children and owns vineyards or sources grapes in Dry Creek Valley, Alexander Valley, Sonoma Valley and Napa Valley. Sbragia makes Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.

Despite its popularity, this grape is quite rare. Less than 10,000 acres are planted worldwide, with the bulk in California. In France, the grape is referred to as Durif. Not to be confused with Syrah, Petite Sirah is a cross of Syrah and Peloursin. The result is darker and fuller.