Insider's Pick: 2014 Folk Machine 'Parts & Labor' Red

Another vintage, another unique blend, and still one of the best values from California for those that prefer a more balanced, restrained style of wine. Over the last few years the many projects of winemaker Kenny Likitprakong have been going from strength to strength, sourcing fruit from under-appreciated vineyards in some of California's cooler growing regions to craft high quality wines that purposely avoid the heavier textures and higher alcohol levels. Not a judgement call to the good or bad, but the image of Californian wines painted with a broad brush is to 'super-size' a lot of the character, and it's nice to see more wines made domestically that reach out to another part of the wine drinking population. 
A blend of mostly Rhone varieties Syrah, Carignan, and Grenache with a splash of Barbera into the mix, this showcases an earthy and gamey side of wine not usually seen in Cali. A lot of that has to do with the old vine (@100 years old average) organically grown Carignan, which brings lots of cool blueberry fruit and wild game aromas, and even when fully ripe never gets the sweeter jammy texture Grenache or Syrah can, which in this setting is an absolute benefit. The other varieties kick in hints of their red fruits  here and there, and the Syrah gives a bit of extra body, but the Carignan provides the majority of this wine's wild side. The use of native yeasts and aging in neutral large foudre barrels let the distinct character shine through, and the fan base for this style is growing vintage by vintage. It may not be everyone's cup of kombucha, but for others it will scratch an itch that's very hard to reach.

We're offering free tastings as usual, this Thursday August 6th and August 7st,  2015, and a 10% discount off the retail price of $17.99 for the Californian Red through the duration of the day. Stop by between 12 Noon and 7:30pm for a free taste, and bring home some incredible wine.