2020 Bronson Bros.
Starfield Estate El Dorado AVA
Tasting Notes
Our most fruit-forward GSM blend features layers of rich fruit from Grenache, Cinsaut, and Petite Sirah. It's redolent with aromas of ripe, juicy plum, red raspberry, currant, and hibiscus, which are surrounded by savory notes of fresh cedarwood, graphite, juniper, and cigar box. This medium body wine is profoundly well-balanced, with rich fruit, gentle spice, and a velvety finish. Fresh pomegranate, spiced strawberry jam, and luxurious chocolate covered cherry dominate the palate, with just a hint of black pepper on the finish. This wine is a welcoming little mosaic, which pairs with many foods, and you will keep coming back for more! Drink now through 2027.
The wine's name honors the first winemakers in Placerville, the Bronson Brothers, who established a nursery and vineyard in Smith Flat, just across the street from the present-day Smith Flat House and began producing wines in 1857. For a number of years, they were the largest winemakers in the County. From the top of the ridge above our Amphitheater, you can see the site of their vineyard. One hundred sixty-three years later, their vision survives in this lovely GSM blend.
Wine Profile
| Grape Variety: | 35% Grenache, 32% Syrah, 23% Mourvèdre, 7% Petite Sirah, 3% Cinsaut |
| Appellation: | El Dorado AVA |
| Vineyard: | Starfield Estate |
| Vines: | Planted 2013-2015 |
| Elevation & Site: | 2,300-2,400 feet. Grenache and Mourvèdre are planted near the top of the hill, where they bask in the afternoon sun, as does Petite Sirah, which is planted on a south-facing slope just below the lake. Syrah grows on cooler north slopes near the Tasting Room, while Cinsaut is planted in the cooler part of the vineyard, at the bottom of the hill, preserving its delicate aromas. |
| Alcohol: | 15.1% |
| pH: | 3.66 |
| Acidity g/L: | 5.60 |
| Cellaring: | 18 months in 35% new French oak, 65% neutral French oak |
| Bottling Date: | June 2022 |
| Production: | 572 cases |
Download this Wine's Technical Information Sheet
Food Pairings
Beef Tenderloin with Gorgonzola, Slow Cooked Pulled Pork in Root Beer BBQ Sauce, Grilled Spiced Halloumi and Watermelon Skewers
Recommended Recipes
Wine Awards and Accolades
- 92 Points - Wine Enthusiast
- 97 Points, Double Gold, Best of Class - Sunset International Wine Competition
- Best of Class - Triple Gold - Dan Berger's International Wine Competition
- 94 Points - Gold - LA Invitational
- Platinum - Best Rhone Blend - Winemaker's Challenge
- Double Gold - Calaveras County Fair
Product Reviews
