GRAPES: 100% CORTESE
SKIN CONTACT: 6 months
REGION: MENDOCINO, CALIFORNIA
Vinification method: Evan Lewandowski believes deeply in the cycle of life (going so far as to name his winery after the book of Ruth and its compelling depiction of the natural cycle of death and redemption), organic farming, and spontaneous fermentation. While the grapes are grown in Mendocino Country, California, the winemaking process occurs in Utah. Ultimately, the goal is to plant and grow 100% of the grapes in Utah.
Two acres of Cortese are farmed at Fox Hill Vineyard. That's roughly 1/6th of all Cortese planted in the United States. Cortese will always be a rarity here, but Cortese with 6(+) months of skin contact doubles down on the uncommonness of it all. Chilion is a chance for all to see just how incredibly complex this variety is...due mainly to the extended maceration on skins which provide amplified spice, herbs, and phenolics than we're all accustomed to with this particular grape.
Tasting notes: medium bodied, root vegetables, persimmon, dried sage and thyme
Pair with some pork crown roast or wild mushroom risotto with truffle!
Mix and match 3, 6 or 12 bottles!