The Reds are Heading into the Winery
Harvest Update: Week Two
As we dive into the second week of harvest at Kiepersol, we are greeted by a wet and rainy backdrop. Despite the weather challenges, our team has seamlessly transitioned to picking some of our award-winning red varieties. This week, we have been focused on harvesting Syrah, Sangiovese, Merlot, and Camminare Noir. Here’s a closer look at each of these remarkable grapes and what makes them special.
Syrah
Syrah is a dark-skinned grape variety known for producing robust red wines with medium to high levels of tannins and acidity. It typically exhibits flavors of dark fruits like blackberry and plum, often with a spicy, peppery finish. This grape thrives in warmer climates, where it can develop its signature bold flavors and deep color.
Sangiovese
Sangiovese is the quintessential Italian grape variety, most famously used in Chianti and other Tuscan wines. It is cherished for its high acidity and moderate to high tannin levels, making it a perfect candidate for aging. Flavor profiles range from sour red cherries to earthy tones, with a rustic, savory character. Sangiovese typically requires careful management to achieve full ripeness and express its full complexity.
Merlot
Merlot is known for its soft, velvety texture and is often used in blends to soften wines made from more tannic varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon. It has moderate acidity and tannins, making it very approachable even at young ages. Flavor-wise, Merlot offers a mix of ripe, dark fruits such as cherries and plums, often complemented by notes of chocolate, and black tea.
Camminare Noir
Camminare Noir is a lesser-known variety compared to its counterparts. It typically produces wines that are medium-bodied and rich in color, with a good balance of acidity and tannin. The flavor profile often includes a mix of red and black fruits, combined with earthy undertones and herbal notes, making it a versatile grape for single-varietal wines and blends.
Embracing the Elements
Despite the wet and rainy conditions this week, our team’s spirits remain high as we continue to nurture and harvest these exceptional grape varieties. Each grape brings its own unique story and character to our wines, reflecting the dedication and passion we pour into every bottle at Kiepersol. Stay tuned for more updates as we progress through this exciting harvest season and join us in celebrating the diversity and richness of our vineyard.
Cheers to another fruitful week of harvest!
The Kiepersol Team
Dylan Latham is Kiepersol’s Distiller. Creating enticing spirits from scratch ignited his passion for the craft of distilling. He fits right in at a distillery that values faith, family, and a genuine love of people. With a focus on craftsmanship and a dedication to creating exceptional beverages, he brings joy to others through his creations.
Dylan is a native Texan, a former financial professional, and an avid bourbon collector.
