2012 Sandlands Carignan Contra Costa

In 2012, the Sandlands Carignane emerges from Morgan Peterson's Bedrock Vineyard. Here the flavors are decidedly darker, riper and more voluptuous than they are throughout the rest of the Sandlands range, which reflects both the personality of this warm micro-climate and Peterson's decision to harvest the Carignane a bit on the ripe side of things. An ample, textured wine, the 2012 Carignane flows with the essence of dark fruit, mocha, spices and wild flowers. As good as the 2012 is, it might have been even better with a touch more freshness and energy.