Gamay, Portico Hills Vineyards, Sta. Rita Hills, Camins 2 Dreams - 2023

There is a lot of detail to Tara and Mireia’s Portico Hills Gamay. The wine fermented naturally with 25% whole clusters and was aged for six months in neutral casks. The result is highly aromatic and pure: raspberry, tomato leaf and mushroom were my notes. Its vibrant presence and a bright streak of acidity echoes the vineyard's terroir. There is a savory, cru Beaujolais-like tension, but with an added lift that comes from these cool, sandy hillsides. You can tell there’s a very high taste level, love and care here. Tara and Mireia have said they hope to “see and promote change from conventional farming to regenerative farming so we can preserve the land for future generations. Also, people will begin to show more respect for the land, the food, and the workers.” Cheers to that!