2006 Concannon Nina's Cuvee Petite Sirah

A Different Take On Petite Sirah

Just recently, I reviewed this wine’s brother, the Captain Joe. This is a different spin on Petite Sirah from Concannon Vineyard, and while the Joe is more my speed, others might really prefer this one.

Unlike the Joe, the Nina does not have the influence of 20% Syrah grapes. The blend is, according to the bottle, made “primarily” of the Petite Sirah grapes that grew in “Nina’s Vineyard” (named after Nina Concannon, the current winemaker’s grandmother).

The nose on this wine is pleasant, but for me, didn’t have the big fruit notes I was told to expect. Instead I got earth and wet stone, a pleasant “after a recent rain” smell that was fresh and clean, but also hearty and earthy, and a bit sweet.

Black fruit notes come through on the palate, as do some very nice white pepper and clove. It’s quite different from the Captain Joe, but another very nice example of the variety from the winery that pioneered the making of Petite Sirah wine in America a half-century ago.

Verdict: B


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