Atelier Ilaria, Petite Sirah, Napa Valley, California, 2022

Overview of the Wine
Winemaking is a family affair in the Monticelli home. Anna's husband, Mario, was born into a family whose roots as winemakers span four generations. His father emigrated from Italy to California where he worked for over 50 years making wine for Gallo. He introduced Mario to the family business when Mario was still a child, instilling in him a passion for cultivating grapes and making wine that defines his life today.

Anna's winemaking journey began at the University of California Davis, where she earned a degree in Viticulture and Enology. She spent her fourth year studying at the Sorbonne in Paris, France. After completing her degree in California, she returned to France to work the 2000 vintage at Château Cheval-Blanc. She was very fortunate to work for their technical director, Kees Van Leeuwen, one of the foremost viticultural professors in Bordeaux.

Winemakers
Anna & Mario Monticelli

Grape / Blend
100% Petite Sirah

Origin
Napa Valley, California

Winemaker's Tasting Notes
The 2022 Atelier Ilaria Napa Valley Petite Sirah leaps from the glass with aromas of blackberry compote, huckleberry liqueur and candied plum. Layers of dark chocolate, purple flowers and scorched volcanic rock intermingle beautifully. The wine is unctuous, plush and generously coats the palate. The tannins are silky smooth and complement the gorgeous ripe dark fruit core.

Product size: 750ml