Of late I have been on a Petite Sirah kick, and I thoroughly enjoy the wines made from this grape variety. Petite Sirah is a cross with the Peloursin and Syrah grapes, and its proper name is Durif, but few call it by that name. The 2009 Cartlidge & Browne Petite Sirah is a deep, dark purple in the glass, with aromas of cherries, plums, and spice. The flavor profile is of black cherries, black plums, blackberries, nutmeg, and a slight hint of oak. This Petite Sirah has a nice jamminess to it, is medium to full-bodied, and the tannins are smooth.

Jon