Birichino : Besson Vineyard Grenache Old Vines 2023

A Californian Grenache from Century-Old Vines of Central Coast

The Estate

Founded in 2008 by Alex Krause and John Locke in Santa Cruz, California, Birichino develops a handcrafted approach focusing on rare grape varieties and historical terroirs. These former collaborators of Bonny Doon work with about ten Californian families owning heritage vineyards in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Their minimalist philosophy emphasizes the use of indigenous yeasts and aging in neutral barrels, reflecting the Italian name of the estate meaning "mischievous" and their commitment to highlighting forgotten terroirs.

The Vineyard

The Besson Vineyard is located in the Central Coast appellation, at an altitude of 100 meters. This exceptional terroir features sandy, gravelly, and rocky soils predominantly loamy. The Grenache Noir vines, planted in 1910, constitute a priceless pre-Prohibition viticultural heritage, offering remarkable concentration and complexity thanks to their venerable age of over a century.

Winemaking and Aging

Aging takes place for 13 months in 228-liter barrels and 450-liter foudres, allowing for harmonious development of aromas.

Grape Variety

This Besson Vineyard Grenache Old Vines 2023 from Birichino is 100% Grenache Noir.