March 10, 2008

Vinum Cellars "Pets" Petite Sirah 2005

VARIETAL: Petite Sirah
REGION: Clarksburg, California
PRICE: $13
Mondays warrant a special bottle. I don't mean expensive... just knock-your-socks-off good because you still have the rest of the week to get through. Or maybe you're tired of the long, cold drawn-out winter. Whatever your predicament, the Vinum Cellars Petite Sirah is sure to make you smile from the inside out. This wine seduces you with its intense plum hue and languid viscosity.
Swirl it, swirl it... now inhale. You'll be blown away by intoxicating scents of rich fig, cassis, deep berry and a twinge of pomegranate. This big chewy red is lush with jammy plum and blueberry balanced with a blast of cranberry, dusty sage and a hint of smoke. This is everything a petite sirah should be. You may not want to stop sniffing and sipping long enough to serve this with food. But if you do, it pairs beautifully with roasted racks of lamb - or any other roast for that matter. And as an added bonus, Vinum donates a portion of the profits from this wine to their local animal shelter.