# Barre Azure (2018)

- **Producer:** Porter Family Vineyards
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Merlot
- **Region:** California, United States
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **Average price:** €90
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** blackberry, blackcurrant, plum, black pepper, violet, mint, vanilla, cedar, cloves, toast, smoke, leather, tobacco, forest floor

## About this wine

Porter Family Vineyards is nestled in the hills of the Coombsville AVA, a cooler sub-region of southeastern Napa Valley. Founded by Tom and Connie Porter, the estate utilizes state-of-the-art gravity-flow winemaking facilities built entirely underground. The 'Barre Azure' is a signature red blend crafted to showcase the unique microclimate of Coombsville, where volcanic soils and cooling marine breezes from the San Pablo Bay yield wines of exceptional structure, balance, and longevity.

## Interesting facts

- The winery is entirely underground, featuring a state-of-the-art gravity-flow facility built inside a cave.
- Coombsville's unique volcanic ash soils and cooler climate give this Napa red a distinctively vibrant acidity.
- The name 'Barre Azure' pays homage to the blue-toned volcanic soils and the pristine, cool-climate conditions of the estate.

## Food pairing

The robust structure, firm tannins, and vibrant acidity of this Coombsville red blend require rich, protein-heavy dishes to soften the tannins. Grilled and roasted meats with savory herbs or earthy mushroom-based dishes complement the wine's dark fruit profile and subtle oak spices.

## Wine making process

The grapes for Barre Azure are hand-harvested in the cool morning hours and meticulously sorted. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks and oak vats. The wine is aged for approximately 20 to 22 months in French oak barrels (a significant portion of which is new) to integrate the tannins and add complexity. The gravity-flow design of the underground cave winery ensures gentle handling of the fruit and wine throughout the entire process.