Winery: Opolo

Vintage: 2011

Wine Name/Vineyard: Petite Sirah

Wine Category: Petite Sirah

Grape blend: 100% Petite Sirah

Bottle size: 750 ml

Region: Paso Robles

State or country: California

Price: $34.00

ABV: 14.8%

Cases produced: N/A

The Barrel Cellar Score:  93 points

Review date: June 19, 2019

About the Winemaker: Opolo Vineyards in Paso Robles California sits on a beautiful property with rolling hills, warm weather, and lots of beautiful vines. I usually try to visit when I make a trip to the region; They have won more awards than I can count and have an extensive list of wines which makes it an ideal stop on a tasting tour. They have something for everyone and the quality of the wine is great too!

Color:  Dark Purple with a smoky topaz rim

Nose:  Dried prune, cherry cola

Taste: Dark berries, fig, leather, a hint of strawberry, mint, and dried herb Finish: bay leaf

Assessment: Inky and full bodied. I wouldn’t call this wine dry given the inky characteristics and plentiful fruit; however it is a tannic wine. I’d say the perfect amount of tannins. Acidity is reserved but the wine is balanced well and the high alcohol content is held in check. I’ve always felt that Petite Sirahs, as a whole, don’t get the attention they deserve. It’s one of my favorite varietals, when done right they really can be something special; this is an example of a Petite Sirah done right. Opolo hits it out of the park here. It’s fantastic and it’s priced well too. Drink the 2011 vintage now; It’s the perfect time.

Pairing recommendation: Soft cheese, ribeye, dark chocolate.

Opolo 2011 Petite Sirah is an exceptional wine.  93 points  Buy here.