2021 is another vintage that began with a warmer than average Summer (it hit 118f in June!) but ended on a cooler than average harvest. It resulted in a vintage with the richness of ‘18 but with ‘19’s pretty side — it’s built on poise rather than broad shoulders.
While we’ve worked with Mahonia for decades, this was the third year that it is our monopoly and we’re enjoying helping with farming and getting to use all its fruit! This is an especially good vintage. Savory with nori, black sesame, juniper, and medicinal roots, and nicely fruited with plum cordial, cassis, and blood orange zest.