2007 Behrens Family Erna Schein Petite Sirah Kick Ranch

(includes 10% cabernet sauvignon and 4% petit verdot; the first release for this wine, from a vineyard in Rincon Valley budded over from all cabernet) Deep ruby. Candied blackberry, licorice and flinty minerality on the distinctly rocky nose. Sweet, creamy and deep, with dark berry and mineral flavors that really saturate the palate. Plenty of body and power here, but this is by no means a musclebound example of petite sirah. Finishes suave and nicely delineated, with firm tannic spine, enticing lift and impressive persistence. This will be a cuvee to follow.