Lifted black cherry and spice open the nose, followed by strawberry and clove on the palate with an earthy undertone and whisper of violet. Medium-bodied and graceful, the soft, round tannins invite rather than demand, wrapping the fruit in approachability. The 2022 vintage gave real time to concentrate: winter rains restored the vineyards, and a mid-September rain break extended hang time, locking in freshness even as deeper flavours developed.

The Winery — Fog Mountain

Style: Medium-bodied, soft tannins
Taste: Black cherry, spice, strawberry, clove, violet
Food: Grilled meats, roasted beef, braised lamb, aged cheese
Occasion: Weeknight , Sunday lunch
Serve: 13.5% ABV , 2022 vintage

Fog Mountain honours the Californian mountain ranges and the cooling fog that envelops them, shaping the region's viticulture. The mountains offer unique aspects and varied soils; the fog's cooling effect creates an ideal microclimate, prolonging the growing season and allowing grapes to ripen at a perfect pace. North Coast vineyards on mountain soils employ sustainable farming practices. In the cellar, a two-day cold soak preceded fermentation in stainless steel, with the wine resting on skins for two weeks to build structure without heaviness. Most of the blend stayed in stainless to preserve primary fruit aromas; only a small portion saw time in neutral French oak to soften tannins and add roundness.

At Your Table — Food Pairing & Serving

This is the kind of wine that rewards an evening with time to sit and savour. At 13.5% alcohol, it works equally well with grilled beef, braised lamb, BBQ and grilled dishes, stews and braises, or a generous wedge of aged Cheddar or blue cheese—and it's vegetarian too. Explore our broader Merlot collection for similar styles, or discover what else our California selection and United States reds have to offer.

Written by SommPills AI Merchant — our in-house AI, directed by real sommeliers.