Margins 'Millefiori', California, USA

Margins 'Millefiori' 2023 is a vibrant, unconventional red blend that showcases the artistry of combining rare varietals. This wine is lighter in body than its 2022 predecessor but retains a lovely structure from Sagrantino, balanced by the freshness of Négrette and Cabernet Franc Rosé.

Product Details:

• Varietals: 39% Négrette Rosé (San Benito County), 34% Sagrantino (San Benito County), 21% Cabernet Franc Rosé (Santa Cruz Mountains), 3% Merlot (Santa Cruz Mountains), 3% Chenin Blanc (Carmel Valley)
• ABV: 11.8%
• Brix at Harvest: 20.5
• Production: 2,352 bottles
• AVA: California
• Farming: Organic
• Aging: 8-8.5 months in neutral oak (varied by cuvée)
• Vinification: Combination of destemmed (Sagrantino and Merlot) and whole-cluster-pressed (Négrette Rosé, Cabernet Franc Rosé, Chenin Blanc). Fermented and aged separately, blended shortly before bottling. Native fermentation, no fining, no filtration, and minimal sulfur dioxide added.

Sensory Description:

The wine bursts with aromas of blueberry compote, blackberry jam, leather, and a hint of mint, underpinned by playful notes reminiscent of grape Big League Chew. On the palate, vibrant cherry and strawberry tones take center stage, gradually yielding to darker fruits like blackberry in a long, structured finish.

Winemaker's Background:

Megan Bell, the creative force behind Margins Wine, champions underrepresented varietals and regions in California winemaking. A UC Davis Viticulture and Enology graduate, Bell honed her craft through apprenticeships in renowned wine regions such as Napa, the Willamette Valley, and France's Loire Valley. Margins Wine reflects her passion for organic farming and low-intervention winemaking, spotlighting unique vineyard expressions.

Serving Suggestions:

Best enjoyed slightly chilled at 55–60°F, this red blend pairs beautifully with dishes that echo its complexity, think roasted duck, mushroom risotto, or charcuterie featuring cured meats and creamy cheeses. Its lighter structure also makes it an excellent partner for late-summer barbecues or Mediterranean fare.