A perfect companion for the summer grill,
A perfect companion wine for the summer grill
After the acquisition of Robert Mondavi Winery in 2004 by Constellation Brands, eldest son and chairman Michael Mondavi channeled his family’s entrepreneurial spirit into the development of Folio Fine Wine Partners. Michael’s strategy was to represent and market international brands from emerging markets such as Argentina, Austria, Germany, Italy and Spain while also branding his own wine. Along with his wife Isabel, daughter Dina, and son Rob, who handles winemaking responsibilities, this collaborative effort is responsible for assembling nine family labels including Spellbound. Michael believes he understands the vineyards, his consumers and, more importantly, the common sense practices handed down by his family. Petite Sirah is more intimately known as the Durif grape, founded by French botanist Francoise Durif in the 17th century. This bold grape is gaining increased recognition among consumers and is grown throughout the world, including several regions of California. The 2009 Spellbound Petite Sirah is primarily Petite Sirah with a touch of Syrah, and is sourced from the warm, dry terrain of Lodi, Calif. While this grape can be a bit wild and inky in nature, fourth generation winemaker Rob Mondavi Jr. has a gentle touch in expressing the velvety, baked blueberry pie characteristics of this wine. Seamless amounts of blue and black fruits are integrated into a round and savory mouth-feel with ample amounts of sweet tannins and glycerin in the back. This wine may make the perfect companion for backyard grilling during the summer. Suggested Retail: $13.99 W. Peter Hoyne has been a wine journalist for over 20 years, covering stories of national and international significance. While his professional relationships in the wine industry have allowed him to share a unique perspective of wine, he is also intrigued by the culinary aspect and harmony that exist between wine and food. As a wine advocate, he is committed to consumer education and is focused on upcoming trends and American wine-buying habits.
Above
BOLD GRAPES: Spellbound Petit Sirah derives from a bold grape grown throughout the world, including several regions of California. Winemaker Rob Mondavi Jr. has helped express “the velvety, baked blueberry pie” characteristics of the wine.