PICK OF THE WEEK

2013 Brutocao Quadriga Hopland Ranches

Overall score: 19 (9 for quality, 10 for value) Our tasters: Gave it a unanimous recommendation with a high score of 9.3. “Blackberries, roasted tomatoes. Earthy.” My score: 9. “Peppery, rustic, hearty. Fun food-pairing wine.”

Varietal/blend: A unique blend of four Italian varietals: Sangiovese (40 percent), primativo (28), barbera (16) and dolcetto (16), which explains the name. A “quadriga” is a chariot drawn by four horses abreast and has long been a symbol of triumph.

Alcohol: 13.5 percent. Winery/vineyards/winemaking: The 400-acre, sustainably farmed property in southern Mendocino County caught a huge break when the recent wildfire, the largest in California history, stayed comfortably to the northeast. Hoss Milone, a fourth-generation Mendocino winemaker, is in charge of the cellar. The grapes for the Quadriga were harvested in early morning, and about half were then destemmed. Forty-eight hours of cold-soaking followed with individual lots spending, on average, 18 days on the skins. Aging lasted for 18 months in oak, 90 percent French and 25 percent new.

Winemaker notes: “With aromas of flowers, caramel and mocha, it exhibits blackberry notes in the beginning and subtle oak in the middle with a long berry and rhubarb finish.”

Pairings: Duck, venison, pork and sausage as well as most dishes that include Parmesan cheese, tomatoes and basil.

Price: $19.94 at Spec’s