Forlorn Hope 2023 Skin Ferment Muscat Blanc 'Bisamratten'
Two Shepherds 2023 Skin Fermented Trousseau Gris
LIWA 2022 Skin Ferment Albariño

Forlorn Hope 2023 Skin Ferment Muscat Blanc 'Bisamratten'

The Wine: Hand-harvested and destemmed. Fermented 10 days on skins before pressing to neutral barrique. Delicately aromatic with wild pea shoots, mandarin and almond. The palate opens to reveal a collection of tropical fruits and candied ginger. Dried apricots prevail with an undertone of roasted almonds. 13.2% alc.

The Winery: Forlorn Hope was the name given to the band of soldiers who volunteered to lead the charge directly into enemy defenses. The chance of success for the Forlorn Hope was always slim, but the glory and rewards granted to survivors ensured no shortage of applicants. These bottles are their headlong rush into the breach. Rare creatures from the limestone slopes of Rorick Heritage Vineyard, these wines are their brave advance party, their pride and joy. Their wines are honest and pure representations of the site and variety.

Two Shepherds 2023 Skin Fermented Trousseau Gris

The Wine: Trousseau Gris is an extremely rare variety. Originally planted over 40 years ago, the Fanucchi vineyard is the only identified dedicated planting in California. Grapes are de-stemmed, crushed and left on the skins in open small 3/4-ton bins for the start of fermentation. This is a fun introduction to skin contact wines, like a slightly salty rosé, with white ripe peach aromatics and flavor. 12.9% alc.

The Winery: William and Karen of Two Shepherds released their first vintage of all Rhône varieties in 2010, and have since expanded to include more obscure varieties and skin fermented wines. They work with organic, biodynamic and sustainable vineyards throughout Northern California to create surprising and distinct wines. As the name suggests, they find joy in the shepherding of unusual grapes, as well as the array of farm life present in their vineyard.

LIWA 2022 Skin Ferment Albariño

The Wine: Made with 100% Albariño, the fruit was harvested and destemmed, then fermented in a stainless steel tank with skins and no cold soak. The nose shows sea spray, orange peel, dried peach, apricot, thyme, sweet basil, and fresh mango. Palate is textured with bright, refreshing acidity and notes of mango and banana chips, apricot and a hint of sweet basil. 12% alc. 

The Winery: Liwa is the Miwok name for water, and these thirst-quenching wines are made in collaboration with Inizi Wines for everyday drinking. All farming is organic, and a portion of the proceeds go to the Native American Rights Fund / 1% for the Planet.