This harkens back to more traditional, Italian Nebiolo, rather than a California iteration. Of course, that was their goal in planting their northern Sonoma property to begin with. The fruit is rather muted, the tannins fairly tight, and the acidity is noticeable. These are all traits of good European wine and it’s nice to see California making something that represents Nebbiolo’s true style. Though the tannins are a little tight decanting is not necessary, although an hour or so would do some good.

You probably have never heard of Carricante, the Italian grape that grows on Mount Etna. Centennial Mountain specifically pursued their exact location in Sonoma to bring the Italian Carricante to California, the first of its kind.

This remains my favorite wine in the Carlisle line-up.  Purple in color with a ruby rim, mostly opaque and bright.  The nose is great with black cherries, raspberries, nutmeg and other spices and slight char.  Lush texture!  Great energy and balance.  On the palate, this is young but delicious.  Flavors of black cherries, black raspberries and red raspberries.  Long finish.  This is great on its own and will work with bigger foods.  A nice choice with ribs or a (veggie) Burger off the grill.  Drink over the next five to eight years.  

A tremendous value for a tasty, food friendly wine that has some "stuffing" to it.  Deep garnet in color, mostly opaque and bright.  The nose is open with cherries, pomegranates, forest floor, slight earthiness and sandalwood.  Medium to full bodied.  Light to medium tannins.  Good acidity.  On the palate, this is open and drinks easily.  Flavors of cherries, dark cherries with some underlying earthiness.  Good finish.  This is nice on its own but better with food.  It would be perfect with a plate of pasta or a pizza with tomato sauce.  Drink over the next five years.