2012 Phenomenon

THE 2012 VINTAGE
2012 was one of a number of exceptional years for Napa Valley and in particular the St. Helena Appellation where Benessere Vineyards resides.  An early budbreak and moderate temperatures throughout the growing season led to a long, slow ripening period, allowing outstanding flavors to develop at relatively low Brix (sugar levels).

WINEMAKING
The four varieties were hand-picked and fermented separately with gentle fermentation techniques resulting in extract its great depth and complexity. We selected the finest barrels of each lot to create the Phenomenon blend. The wine matured for 18 months in new and once-used French oak barrels before bottling without fining or filtering.  

TASTING NOTES
Phenomenon is our winemaker's blend and reflects the best of these four varietals grown on our Estate. The intense purplish color of this wine is bested only by the overwhelming aromatic qualities. It exudes captivating, kaleidoscopic aromas of blackberry, blueberry, allspice, clove and ripe cherry. On the palate it displays a fine grip while it reveals cocoa, vanilla and toasty oak. 

PAIRINGS
Enjoy this wine with a grilled, simply seasoned porterhouse steak served with broccolini or rapini, polenta, stewed white beans and porcini mushrooms.  The complexity and structure of this wine make it easy to pair with food, so don't hesitate to pair it with rich sauces and spices dishes!

Matt Reid, Winemaker