INSIDER'S PICK: 2019 FIELD RECORDINGS 'FICTION' ROSE PASO ROBLES $18.99

At a time like this, it's pretty much impossible to be 'normal'. But it is important to try and keep what you can as close to normal as you can while you can. Even though we will not be doing the public tasting portion of the Insider's Pick until further notice, we will still be offering the wine for purchase with the usual 10% discount on Thursday and Friday. The wines will still be ones we highly recommend, and the tasting notes will still be our own. We hope you are able to come by and get some wines to enjoy.

Field Recordings is one of our favorite examples of the innovative and experimental element that exists in contrast to what many people think of as the typical Californian wine style. Owner and winemaker Andrew Jones has made his name across the Central Coast from his work tending vineyards and nurseries at some of the best properties. When he looked to start making his own wines and follow his own path, he looked to those vineyards he helped to grow and establish by sourcing any extra tonnage they could offer. Each vintage he has been able to cobble together more and more sources, enabling the brand to grow. While the sources aren't constant and the wines aren't the same year to year, the quality of technique shines through, and his nod to the more 'hands off' styles of winemaking have gained him quite a following from customers eager to try his latest creations. Last year's Rose, for example, was designated Edna Valley and contained a high percentage of Valdigue along with Molinara and Grenache. New vintage, new sources, new blend of mostly Grenache with a smaller portion of Valdigue, still delicious. Super juicy and mouthfilling with loads of warm watermelon and strawberry fruit all over it. At first taste it may seem lower in acidity, and the lower alcohol (just under 11%abv) may make you think it's sweeter than normal. The Grenache was picked early to keep the sugars and alcohol lower and acidity higher specifically to make this rose, and you catch the snap of freshness on the finish because of it. The cooler it is the more that acidity pops, but as it warms the fruit and subtle herbal tones come out, so you may want to play around with it to find your optimal enjoyment center.

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