PharaohMoans

After a two-year hiatus we are finally releasing our latest vintage of PharaohMoans. We are extremely grateful for the generous support of the PharaohMoans project over the many years; and we are pleased to announce some exciting changes as we introduce our 18th release: the 2021 PharaohMoans GSM Blend from Napa Valley.

Year after year we have garnered consistently high ratings for our focus on the varietals, Syrah and Grenache. However, as my palate evolved, the increasingly muscular wines of Paso contradicted my desire to produce a mouth-watering, Châteauneuf-du-Pape style wine with old-world elegance. I knew I wanted to re-orient PharaohMoans, but I was challenged by my inability to find fruit with balanced phenolics in the Paso region.

The Egyptian wine gods must have been looking out for me! I was tipped off about a few well-established acres, seven to be exact, of the sensual GSM varietals I'd been seeking - right here in Napa Valley! As you know, Cabernet Sauvignon is king in Napa, so these vineyards are very rare, particularly at the caliber we demand. The stars aligned, we were able to sequester the fruit, and we are excited to share it with you in this inaugural blend of 75% Grenache, 15% Syrah, 10% Mourvédre.

Hand harvested in late September at 26-27 brix from diverse vineyards in Mt. Veeder, Calistoga, Rutherford, and Atlas Peak, the wine went through a three day cold soak and 14 day fermentation process. It is now resting in a combination of 20% new French oak (Trueill & Taransaud) and 80% neutral oak. Cherry and black forest cake elements from the Grenache intertwine seamlessly with the earthy, savory characteristics of the Syrah and Mourvédre. Aromas of anise, cinnamon and clove melt into flavors of peppery licorice, cacao and dark berries in the glass. With a creamy mouthfeel supported by supple, velvety tannins, this wine is truly special!

We encourage you to reserve your allocation by completing the below order form or order by phone at (707) 251-8070. The inaugural release of this GSM blend is priced at only $75/bottle and available in elegant Grands Joueurs Vignerons six-bottle packs ($450 + tax/shipping) which will ship to you in Fall, 2023.