Mourvedre’s origins in the sunny regions of eastern Spain and southern France make it perhaps the perfect grape for the rolling hills and dramatic backdrops of California’s Sierra Foothills.
Crystal Basin’s version has a velvety spiciness along with a mysterious combination of white pepper and cherry. It is a fun wine to enjoy for the first time. People find they really enjoy a new wine flavor they have not previously encountered.
Crystal Basin sources grapes from three vineyards within the El Dorado appellation. These vineyards are as divergent as the local terrain. The premiere vineyard was planted by a grower pioneering Rhone Varieties in the early 1990’s. Another represents a not-so-distant past where plant materials could be brought unvetted to California and planted. These are referred to as “suitcase clones” and, while contributing unique flavors and characteristics to the finished wine, are increasing rare in the state. The final contributor is based in the edge of viable vineyard land in El Dorado County, the very southeast corner behind Mt. Aukum.
