2017 Keplinger Sumo
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Tasting notes
The 2017 Sumo, Helen Keplinger's Petite Sirah-based wine, is inky, deep and wonderfully expressive. Rich dark blue/purplish berry fruit grilled herbs, chocolate and menthol infuse the 2017 with striking layers of nuance and complexity. I would give it a few years in bottle to settle down. There is certainly plenty to look forward to.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jeb Dunnuck
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
A Petite Sirah-dominated blend from Amador County, the 2017 Sumo boasts a deep purple color as well as a full-bodied, opulent style. Lots of black and blue fruits, tobacco, chocolate, and a touch of violets define the nose, and it has a big mid-palate, supple tannins, and loads of charm. It’s one delicious mouthful of a wine, and given it’s forward, soft feel, I’d lean toward drinking bottles over the coming 5-7 years.
The 2017 Sumo is made up of 84% Petite Sirah, 13% Syrah and 3% Viognier from the Shake Ridge vineyard, owned and farmed by Ann Kraemer. Aged 18 months in 60% new French oak, it has a deep garnet-purple color and delivers pronounced baked plums, boysenberries and mulberries scents with nuances of mossy tree bark, fungi, fragrant earth and allspice. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is densely laden with black fruit and earthy layers, finishing long and peppery. 295 cases produced.