Keplinger Vermillion 2019

Keplinger’s intention with this bottle was for it to totally overdeliver on quality. The entrance into the world of Keplinger’s incredible Grenache dominant wines. Helen Keplinger moved to Priorat in 04, starting a winery for a group of partners who had purchased a vineyard there. Over the next three years, she immersed herself in the European culture, lifestyle, food and wines.  

Her husband, DJ, visited and they traveled throughout southern France, the Languedoc, and the Rhone, becoming inspired by the warmer European vineyards and the complete Mediterranean way of life. As Helen says “the kitchen gardens, local fresh food, anything slathered in olive oil and sprinkled with sea salt – all of which are enhanced by the delicious, food-friendly wines. These wines and ideals are a big part of our lives in Napa, so it was only natural to begin our wine project with California Grenache and Syrah, and vineyards that would allow them to touch their full potential…”

Vermillion is a blend of roughly 50% Grenache, with Mourvedre, Syrah, Petite Sirah, and a sprinkle of  Cabernet Sauvignon. There’s a quality boost from leftover Keplinger juice combined with premier style vineyards that Helen finds. The quality of wine is based on the quality of all its inputs - good vineyards, smart farming, pure and focused winemaking - ultimately attention and TLC at every step from around California, from Napa to the Sierra Foothills. It’s a testament to the versatility of California that you can grow dainty, challenging Pinot Noir and brooding, thick skinned Syrah. Grenache too, requires heat to show any kind of quality and seduction in the glass.