Julia James is a tribute to the future. Named for the fifth generation of the Opici family, an importer and producer of fine wines and artisanal spirits that started their business in 1913 (and reinstated it after Prohibition).

Grapes for this wine are sourced from Santa Lucia Highlands, Russian River Valley, and Monterey County. The soil is composed of loamy earth, shale, sand, and silt and vines are tended without the use of harmful chemicals or pesticides.

After harvesting by machine the grapes are destemmed, gently pressed and cold-soaked for several days prior to fermentation. Then, when fermentation starts, 50% of the wine was crafted in open-top fermenters, which adds a richer color and softer tannins. The other 50% underwent malolactic fermentation in stainless steel tanks, to increase concentration and preserve delicate aromas. A light filtration leads to a 3 month-ageing period spent in used American & French oak barrels.

TASTING NOTES

Rich yet medium-bodied, offering an exciting bouquet of berry, oak, earth and spice notes, with bold streaks of blueberry, raspberry, mocha and floral flavors. It finishes with an aftertaste of anise and cherries.

FOOD PAIRING

This will pair with a variety of foods.  Teriyaki salmon, quail and other game birds, Peking Duck, hoisin-glazed pork roast , or pork with pomegranate-orange sauce are good carnivorous options.  Slow roasting and braising play well off the roundness of this Pinot.  In the vegetarian department, try squashes, bitter greens; or lentils.  Roasted chicken, fish, Mexican food, grilled veggies, quiche, or pasta salads.

Charcuterie, Chicken/Turkey, Duck, Fish-full flavored (salmon/tuna), Ham, Mushrooms, Pork, Slow-smoked Barbeque/BBQ Sauce, Spicy Food, Thai or Vietnamese, Wild Game