This is one of those wines that transcends it’s place and it’s grape, and the people who make it, which, in this case, says a lot. This is a totally delicious, and hedonistically satisfying glass, and deserves to be served with no introduction.

However, it’s good to know, so here’s a little bit of info. The Sta. Rita Hills appellation is where Ron Melville and his sons Brent and Chad Melville decided to develop their estate vineyards and winery. Since then, they have also developed an interest in Rhone varietals, particularly Northern Rhone Syrah and Viognier. The Melville estate achieves quality through the integrity of its farming practice and its respect to the microclimate.

The winemaker is Greg Brewer, the central coast wunderkind responsible for the Brewer-Clifton wines. The wine sees moderate, and relatively short oak ageing. It is 80% de-stemmed, and 20% whole cluster pressed, and beyond that, there is nothing exceptional about the winemaking. Except the results.

Drink this wine with Texas style barbecue beef ribs, braised shortribs, or nearly anything meaty and a little sweet. Drink now – 2015.