Years ago in a Paris bistro, I enjoyed a completely new and inspiring glass of wine. l'Autrement was the name and it was an amazing blend of Mondeuse, Gamay, and Pinot Noir. The intriguing aromas and its unique deliciousness captured my imagination and made me SMILE!
After several visits with the winemakers, Marie and Florian Curtet - in the foothills of the French Alps, I felt confident enough to try something similar here in California. The fruit from all 3 varieties was de-stemmed and fermented separately in small tanks, then blended and aged in 2 used puncheons (500L barrels). I love how the distinction of each grape variety shines through. Pinot Noir offers fruit, Gamay brings acidity, and Mondeuse contributes a rich, dark color.
The wine is playful, juicy, crunchy, and super-super good!
OK, so the name is a bit irreverent. Tres Chingones refers to the 3 major pests (a$$h@!es) in our vineyard: wild boar, coyote, and starling. It also represents the fantastic combination of these three bad-ass varieties together.
WATCH TRES CHINGONES VIDEO