The vinifera family of grape vines are hermaphroditic but since one vine can pollinate another—a Petite Sirah vine in bloom with a second vine providing the pollen—the seeds could contain unique genetic material and theoretically could produce a different variety. Vineyards therefore are planted with cuttings from other vines. During prohibition, Al Tollini's grandfather laid out this vineyard and then planted Saint George rootstock with deep tap roots suitable for dry-farming. A few years later, he field-grafted the rootstock with Petite Sirah budwood provided by a neighbor—back-aching work in the sun. Tollini's vineyard, like many others of the era, has Peloursin vines—a parent of Petite Sirah—interplanted with the Pets; they add a plummy quality to Petite's blackberry-like flavors. Aged two years in seasoned French oak barrels to tame Petite's plentiful tannins. Gold Medal winner.
Al Tollini and his pal Nomore. Al's Petite Sirah vines—known locally as “Pets”—were planted by his grandfather almost 90 years ago. These old-timers don't bear as much fruit as younger vines, but yield grapes that typically deliver a broader and deeper flavor profile.
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Al Tollini and his pal Nomore. Al's Petite Sirah vines—known locally as “Pets”—were planted by his grandfather almost 90 years ago. These old-timers don't bear as much fruit as younger vines, but yield grapes that typically deliver a broader and deeper flavor profile.