Alta Marfa 'Picnic' Red, High Plains AVA, Texas

The 2023 Alta Marfa "Picnic" Red is an invigorating and vibrant expression of Sangiovese from the Texas High Plains. This wine, with its playful and bright profile, embodies the spirit of casual gatherings and warm Texas evenings, making it a perfect companion for your outdoor adventures.

Product Details:

• Variety: 100% Sangiovese
• Alcohol: 11.48%
• Vineyard: Kubacak Vineyard, High Plains AVA
• Harvest Date: September 5th, 2023
• Bottling Date: March 5th, 2024
• Process: Hand harvested, foot stomped, whole cluster bin fermentation. Pressed after 7 days with 10% carbonic maceration, aged 30 days then pressed and combined. Aged in poly tank, completed malolactic fermentation, 19 ppm total SO2
• Total Cases Produced: 280 cases

Sensory Description: The "Picnic" Red is a burst of playful and fruity flavors, reminiscent of Jolly Rancher candies, cran-apple, and Kool-Aid Jammer, with a hint of rhubarb pie. This lively red wine offers a juicy and refreshing palate that is both light and engaging, perfect for a variety of occasions.

Background on the Kubacak Vineyard: The Kubacak Vineyard, located in the Texas High Plains AVA in Lynn County, is renowned for its sustainable farming practices and high-quality grape production. Farmed by CJ and Jennifer Kubacak, the vineyard focuses on environmentally friendly methods, including avoiding the use of herbicides. This dedication to sustainable viticulture enhances the unique characteristics of the grapes, contributing to the distinctiveness of the wines produced here.

Winemaker's Background: Alta Marfa is dedicated to spontaneous fermentation and minimal intervention winemaking. They never fine, filter, or acidify their wines, aiming to create unique expressions of their region. The winery's vineyards, located in the Texas Davis Mountains and the Texas High Plains, are farmed with a focus on soil health and environmental sustainability. Alta Marfa partners with like-minded farmers, including the Kubacak Vineyard, to produce wines that honor the land and delight the senses.

The Team Behind Alta Marfa:

• Katie Jablonski: Katie graduated from Tulane University in New Orleans, where she met her partner, Ricky. With a background in non-profit outdoor education, she eventually pursued a career in cooking, believing in the harmony of farm-to-table food and wine. Katie also maintains a large garden and looks after a flock of chickens and ducks in her spare time.
• Ricky Taylor: Originally from Northern California, Ricky moved south to attend Tulane University, where he studied chemical engineering. After a stint in the oil industry, he yearned for a more hands-on connection to the land. He started planning Alta Marfa Vineyard in 2016 and has since honed his winemaking skills through trial and error, YouTube, books, and mentorship.
• Lauren Jablonski: Lauren relocated from Bozeman, Montana to assist at Alta Marfa. She handles a variety of tasks, from grape stomping to running the tasting room, often capturing the vineyard's journey through her camera. When not at the vineyard, she gives tours at the Chinati Foundation, renovates RVs, and befriends Marfa's stray cats.
• Alan "Maklvane" Johnson: The creative force behind Alta Marfa's distinctive labels, Alan brings an artistic flair to the winery's branding.

Serving Suggestions: The 2023 "Picnic" Red is a versatile wine, perfect for casual sipping or pairing with a variety of dishes. It pairs exceptionally well with finger sandwiches and spicy marinara spaghetti, making it an ideal choice for a picnic or a relaxed dinner. Serve slightly chilled at around 55°F for the best experience.

Experience the lively and refreshing character of the Texas High Plains with the 2023 "Picnic" Red, a reflection of Alta Marfa's dedication to creating wines that bring people together.