Weekly Wine Review - Petite Sirah - 2009 Chateau Potelle Petite Sirah VGS

I needed a wine big and fruity, but not overly tannic to stand up to some previously home-made then frozen Beef Bourguignon I made from none other than Julia Childs recipe.  Her recipe takes a bit longer and a bit more labor is involved than some other versions, but I've found it worth the effort - very tasty!  My choice was a Petite Sirah from Chateau Potelle in the Napa Valley.   Petite Sirah wines can definitely be big and tannic, but past vintages of this wine have not been overly tannic.

Wine: 2009 Chateau Potelle Petite Sirah VGS

Region: Napa Valley
Grape Varieties: Petite Sirah

Obtained from: Purchased from Chateau Potelle Wine Club

Price: $42.00

Wino4Life Category: Weekend Wine

Aeration before tasting: Just a swirl or two, no special aeration.

Cork Condition: Natural Cork - no defects or issues.

Appearance: Wine is clear, dark purple at the core with a water white rim.

Aroma: Very nice dark fruit like black cherry and boysenberry with a touch of vanilla and oak.

Taste: Nicely fruity with nice levels of acidity (mouth watering feeling), plus some softer tannins (mouth drying feeling) as I was hoping.

The Grade: I give this one an A. This wine was a super companion to Julia's Beef Bourguignon, and would be a great complement to steaks, lamb and any read meat you threw on the grill. Nice fruity flavor, nicely balance.  A little bit on the expensive side, but a great weekend wine to go with a special weekend meal.