Winery's Notes: "Sumo is a Cote Rotie twist on Petite Sirah - Petite Sirah co-fermented with Viognier, and blended with a small amount of Syrah. The 2022 Sumo is a blend of 89% Petite Sirah, 6% Syrah, and 5% Viognier, all from the rocky, volcanic, impeccably-and-organically-farmed Shake Ridge Vineyard. The Petite comes from three blocks, one is 80% rock and produces small, thick-skinned berries with intense aromatics and dense structure. The second Petite block also has very rocky soil with a western exposure - the berries are ever so slightly larger and the skins slightly thinner (remember this is still Petite!), bringing a juicy elegance to the blend. The third Petite block is at the bottom of a north-facing block, and is all about vibrant, fresh fruit - the lifter of the trio."
ANTONIO GALLONI 94 POINTS - "The 2022 Sumo is one of the finest wines in this range. Inky dark fruit, black pepper, lavender, licorice and clove are dialed up. Potent and lush, with tons of intensity, the 202 is impeccably done. There's so much character and freshness here."
JEB DUNNUCK 94 POINTS - "I always love this cuvée from Keplinger, and her 2022 Sumo checks in as 89% Petite Sirah, 6% Syrah, and the rest Viognier, all of which comes from Amador County in the Sierra Foothills region of California. It's a deep purple-hued effort with terrific ripe black and blue fruits interwoven with chocolate, violet, and peppery herb nuances. It's medium to full-bodied and has a rich, layered mouthfeel, supple tannins, and a great finish. It brings plenty of richness and intensity while staying light on its feet and graceful. Drink bottles over the coming decade."
ANTONIO GALLONI 94 POINTS - "The 2022 Sumo is one of the finest wines in this range. Inky dark fruit, black pepper, lavender, licorice and clove are dialed up. Potent and lush, with tons of intensity, the 202 is impeccably done. There's so much character and freshness here."
JEB DUNNUCK 94 POINTS - "I always love this cuvée from Keplinger, and her 2022 Sumo checks in as 89% Petite Sirah, 6% Syrah, and the rest Viognier, all of which comes from Amador County in the Sierra Foothills region of California. It's a deep purple-hued effort with terrific ripe black and blue fruits interwoven with chocolate, violet, and peppery herb nuances. It's medium to full-bodied and has a rich, layered mouthfeel, supple tannins, and a great finish. It brings plenty of richness and intensity while staying light on its feet and graceful. Drink bottles over the coming decade."
