The 2017 A.V.A.trix takes a trip up the hill to the high flying Adelaida District darling, Alta Colina Vineyard, for a Rhone blend of Grenache and Syrah. A vineyard that sits just under 2000’ elevation on steep slopes and meticulously farmed by the Tillman family, this exposed site felt like the perfect counterpoint to our lower elevation, temperate ONX Estate Vineyard. The nose is complex and layered with floral and sweet lavender blossom notes intertwined with plum compote and candied watermelon aromas. An earthy undertone of wet cedar and sweet balsamic confront and balance the sweeter aromas. A textured and concentrated entry of gushing strawberry and raspberries along with a spicy ginger note spill over into a mid-palate of citrusy pomegranate, ambrosia apples, and wet stone. A moderate and grainy tannin structure lays heavier on the front of the palate while a coating acidity runs through to a dark and dense finish of black licorice, green tobacco, and anise.