2023 Red Wine Brain Teaser

The 2023 Red Wine Brain Teaser (tasted from barrel) offers a striking mix of red and blue fruit, peppery spice and savory grip as it completes its 21-month élevage. Extroverted and confident yet cool-toned, it releases aromas of crushed rocks, iodine, forest floor and violet with aeration. Structured and persistent, the 2023 has a muscular frame that promises a bright future, even if it's shut down and tight today. I can't wait to taste it from bottle. The blend is 33.6% Grenache, 30.8% Syrah, 17.5% Petite Sirah, 15.4% Graciano and 2.7% Mourvèdre, done with 23% whole clusters. 
- Billy Norris (08/2025)

A Southern Rhône-like blend of 33.6% Grenache, 30.8% Syrah, 17.5% Petite Sirah, 15.4% Graciano, and the rest Mourvèdre, the 2023 Red Wine Brain Teaser was fermented with 23% whole clusters and is aging in 38% new French oak. Vivid ruby/purple in color, it offers a beautiful mix of red and black berries, peppery spice, sappy spring flowers, and rosemary. Medium to full-bodied, it’s impeccably balanced, with ultra-fine tannins and a seamless, textured mouthfeel. As is typical for this estate, the wine emphasizes finesse and elegance as much as richness and power. Don’t miss it. (04/2025)

The 2023 Brain Teaser Red Wine is a blend of 33.6% Grenache, 30.8% Syrah, 2.7% Mourvèdre, 15.4% Graciano, and 17.5% Petite Sirah. 23% whole clusters were included in the fermentation and it was aged for 21 months in French oak, 38% new. Deep garnet-purple, it has the most fragrant nose of candied violets, anise, and roses, leading to a core of wild blueberries, juicy plums, and black raspberries. The full-bodied palate is plush and lively with bags of perfumed fruit and a long finish. A real head-turner! The vineyard sources this year are Bien Nacido, Stolpman, Rancho Boa Vista, Sanger, and Alta Mesa. 650 cases were made. (08/2025)