Bokisch Vineyards, Graciano, 2021, Clements Hills (AVA)

'One-Liner'
A vibrant Californian take on Graciano, combining ripe red and dark fruit with lively acidity, polished oak and a deliciously savoury edge.

Tasting Note
Wild strawberry, red plum and black cherry are joined by a brighter note of rhubarb, with cedar, vanilla and dark chocolate bringing gentle richness beneath the fruit. The palate is generous and concentrated, but Graciano’s naturally lively acidity keeps everything fresh and energetic. Fine tannins and well-integrated oak provide structure, leading into a long, savoury finish of ripe berries, warming spice and cocoa.

Country: USA
Region: California
Sub-Region: Clement Hills AVA
Grape(s): 100% Graciano
ABV: 14.5%
Friendly: Vegan, Vegetarian, Organic

Awards & Critics' Scores
n/a

The Story
Markus and Liz Bokisch’s fascination with Spanish wine took shape while they were living in Catalonia during the early 1990s, inspiring them to explore how the country’s native grapes might perform in California. They purchased the Terra Alta property in Lodi’s Clements Hills in 1995, later planting Spanish varieties selected for the region’s warm, dry climate and gravelly clay soils. Graciano, better known as a fragrant and fresh supporting grape in Rioja, takes centre stage here, producing a deeply coloured, fruit-filled red whose natural acidity brings welcome energy to the richness of the Californian sunshine.

Perfect With... (click me for the recipe)
- Meat/fish: Catalan-style braised lamb with tomatoes, olives and rosemary
- Vegetarian: Charred mushroom tacos with pickled onions and yoghurt sauce
- Vegan: Rioja-inspired pisto with courgette, peppers, tomato and chickpeas