Tea Monk 2014

Made only the one time in 2014, Tea Monk is made from the vineyard that sat just out front of their house. As Erik calls it “Chateauneuf-type Black Grenache”, which is actually Alicante Bouschet. The first site they bought grapes from in 2011, and rented from 2019. Their smallest parcel of about 400 vines, on sandy clay soils. The site which produces the wine “Escombro.” In 2014 Erik took a risk and decided to pick earlier than usual, to keep acidity with less alcohol. Whole bunch maceration and fermentation in ancient amphora lasting for 7 days, pressed and aged in old barrel. With the name a reference to the jazz legend Thelonious Monk, Erik felt it had an advanced quality that would take more time to be understood. Potent with floral elegance, and intense spice. The fruit is as dark as we’ve come to expect from Eriks wines. With all the earthy and rustic elements kept in check by vibrant acid creating a beautiful tension in the wine. A soaring and unforgettable expression. Aniseed, coriander, chocolate, and cranberry.