About the Icons
A Quarterly Red Cellar Trio Wine Club Selection
Baldassari Wines was formed as a business partnership in 2003 between Matt Michael, winemaker, and Dom Michael, his dad. The winery is named after Matt’s maternal grandfather, Vincenzo “Jimmy” Baldassari, through whom Matt received his first introduction to wine and winemaking. An Italian immigrant with a long family history of home winemaking, he brought the family tradition with him to the US when he emigrated. So, when Matt graduated from UC Davis with a degree in Fermentation Sciences to pursue a career as a winemaker, establishing Baldassari Wines seemed the perfect way to honor their family winemaking history and custom.

Over the years, Matt has secured and nurtured long-term relationships with select growers throughout Sonoma County. This impressive botting is 100% Syrah from the sustainably farmed Nolan Vineyard, located in the Bennett Valley, a tiny sub-appellation known for its volcanic soils and moderate growing season. This unique 3.5-acre site, which is exclusively Syrah was planted in 1996. It is owned and managed by Ken Hunt, whose attention to detail and respect for the land are second to none. Fermentation with native yeast for 22 days, in open-top fermenters (20% whole cluster). Aged in French oak barrels, 20% new.

Dark burgundy/black-red. Beautiful aromas of black and blue fruits, roasted peppercorns, and a hint of cured meats. The palate is rich and full, with flavors of blackberry compote, blueberry pie, and dark plum, punctuated with violet tones and a peppery spice. Great acidity balance with fine tannins and a wonderful, toasted caramel ribbon, winding its way through the long, fruited finish.