Drew 'The Field Blend' Mendocino Ridge GSM Blend 2023

A cool-climate Rhône-style blend from Mendocino Ridge built around Syrah with small amounts of Grenache, Mourvèdre, and aromatic white varieties. Bright red fruit, smoky savory notes, and high acidity give the wine energy and structure, while a little air reveals deeper layers of spice and complexity.

Quick Facts

• Region: Mendocino Ridge, California

• Sub-Region / Appellation: Mendocino Ridge AVA

• Varietal: 87% Syrah, 5% Viognier, 3% Grenache, 3% Mourvèdre, 2% Roussanne

• Vineyard: Valenti Ranch field-planted block with additional Syrah from Perli Vineyard

• Soil: Coastal uplifted marine sedimentary soils typical of Mendocino Ridge

• Farming: Sustainable / site-focused farming

• Fermentation: Native yeast fermentation with ~50% whole clusters

• Aging: Neutral French oak

• Alcohol: 13.7%

Tasting Profile

• Aromas: Red cherry, raspberry, smoked meat, and cracked pepper

• On the Palate: Bright red fruit layered with savory smoke and subtle herbal lift

• Body: Medium

• Structure: High acidity with fine tannins and a slight whole-cluster grip

• Finish: Lingering red fruit and smoky savoriness with a lifted, energetic close

Why We Love It

This wine shows how Rhône varieties behave in a cool coastal California climate. The Syrah provides structure and depth, while the small additions of Grenache, Mourvèdre, and white grapes add lift and aromatic complexity. It’s a blend that feels energetic rather than heavy.

Winemaking

“The Field Blend” comes from a small block at Valenti Ranch where Rhône varieties were grafted and planted together to be harvested and fermented as one lot. Syrah forms the backbone, while Grenache and Mourvèdre play supporting roles and small amounts of Viognier and Roussanne add aromatic lift.

Fermentation occurs with native yeasts and roughly half whole clusters, which contributes spice, structure, and complexity. The wine is aged in neutral French oak to preserve the purity of fruit and coastal freshness rather than introducing overt oak character. On opening, the wine can show a slightly smoky, reductive edge that unfolds with air, revealing the layered fruit and spice underneath.

Petit Perspective: Whole cluster fermentation is key here. It introduces peppery lift and fine tannic structure that complements the cool-climate fruit rather than overpowering it.

Serving & Pairing

Serve slightly cool for best expression. Ideal with grilled lamb, roasted vegetables, charcuterie, or herb-driven dishes. The acidity and savory spice make it especially versatile with food.

Estate Overview

Drew Family Cellars was founded by Jason and Molly Drew and focuses on cool-climate wines from Mendocino Ridge and Anderson Valley. The Mendocino Ridge AVA is defined by elevation, with vineyards planted above the coastal fog line where ocean influence preserves freshness and long growing seasons.

The winery is known for minimal-intervention winemaking and an emphasis on site expression, particularly with Pinot Noir and Syrah grown in coastal ridge vineyards.