2018 Ink Grade - Andosol Red (750ml)
2018 Ink Grade - Andosol Red (750ml) is a site‑driven Howell Mountain red that embraces the volcanic character of its hillside origin. A modern interpretation of California’s historic field blends, this wine is primarily a Zinfandel‑forward cuvée with Cabernet Sauvignon, cultivated under biodynamic, Demeter certified farming. Grown on the estate’s eastern slopes at up to 2,200 feet, the vines thrive in ancient volcanic tufa soils, a terroir that imprints both energy and mineral depth into the wine.
Terroir and Winemaking
Ink Grade traces its lineage to a long arc of history, with Matt Taylor steering the project as a site‑driven expression of Howell Mountain’s native vines. The wine is aged largely in large format oak and foudre, a deliberate, slow maturation that allows the volcanic terroir to speak without imposing excessive new wood. Andosol, the style this wine evokes, captures the spirit of California’s historic blends while highlighting the vineyard’s unique mineral profile.
Tasting Notes
On the palate, bright raspberry and red cherry mingle with ripened black cherry, dark chocolate, and blueberry. The fruit rides on velvety tannins, complemented by spicy oak that amplifies the wine’s structure without masking its fruit. The finish reveals iron and mineral notes distinctive to the volcanic terroir, giving the wine a persistent, geology‑driven resonance.
Pairing and Serving
- Grilled lamb
- Braised short ribs
- Wild mushroom tart
Why this wine
Ink Grade Andosol Red embodies a restrained, terroir‑forward approach that prioritizes vineyard character, altitude, and soil over aggressive extraction. The large‑format aging regime preserves freshness while letting the site’s volcanic DNA emerge through the fruit, tannins, and mineral finish—making it a confident, food‑focused red for cellar‑savvy buyers and curious diners alike.