Iruai 'Psychic Terroir' Red Blend, Rogue Valley, Oregon

Experience the 2023 Iruai 'Psychic Terroir' Red Blend, a unique exploration from Rogue Valley, Oregon, drawing from the expansive and varied terroirs of areas like Mendocino, Lake County, and beyond. This distinctive wine reflects the essence of California's northern viticultural frontier and the Rogue Valley in Oregon, capturing the spirit of the region through an avant-garde blend of varietals. Each component contributes to a Proustian exploration of wine, transcending traditional notions of terroir to include more esoteric, emotional, and creative dimensions.

Product Details

• Region: North Coast & Far North, California; Applegate Valley, Oregon
• Appellation: Applegate Valley
• Vintage: 2023
• ABV: 12.5%
• Varietals: Whole Cluster Muscat: 30% (Fortminer Vineyard), Syrah: 20% (Steelhead Run Vineyard), Cabernet Franc: 20% (Four Diamonds Vineyard), Grenache: 15% (Steelhead Run Vineyard), Gamay: 15% (Four Diamonds Vineyard).

Sensory Description:

'Iruai Psychic Terroir' embodies the pioneering spirit of winemaking, showcasing a diverse array of flavors influenced by the mixed climates and soils of its regions—from the cool, foggy valleys ideal for Muscat to the volcanic, warmer inland areas perfect for robust Syrah and Cabernet Franc. Expect a wine that offers complexity and a true reflection of its multifaceted origins, with notes likely ranging from vibrant fruit to earthy and mineral undertones, alongside a transcendent blend that evokes emotional and creative responses.

Winemaker's Background:

Founded by Chad and Michelle Westbrook Hinds in 2013 as Methode Sauvage and later renamed Iruai, the winery has embraced an avant-garde approach to viticulture and winemaking. Settled in the mythical Shasta-Cascade mountains, Iruai employs permaculture techniques and strives to capture the unaltered character of the wine, focusing on lesser-known grape varieties and a natural winemaking process without additives.

Serving Suggestions:

Iruai Psychic Terroir is best served at a temperature that allows its intricate flavors to fully express themselves. It pairs beautifully with a range of dishes, from hearty mountain fare like grilled meats and rich stews to more refined plates featuring wild mushrooms and aged cheeses. The wine's versatility makes it suitable for a variety of culinary settings, offering a taste experience that is as dynamic as its region of origin.

Enjoy the 2023 Iruai 'Psychic Terroir' Red Blend as it transports you to the rugged landscapes of California's northern edge and Oregon's Rogue Valley, offering a taste of the wild and untamed spirit of these lesser-known wine regions. This wine is an invitation to explore the diverse and evolving identity of wine, crafted by winemakers who are deeply committed to re-enchanting the land and presenting wines that are true to their origins.