Introduction:
The 2023 Clay Shannon Proprietary Red Blend from Lake County is a bold, expressive California red that highlights the region’s volcanic intensity and Clay Shannon’s signature style of power balanced by freshness. Crafted as a proprietary blend, this wine emphasizes ripe dark fruit, layered complexity, and polished structure, offering both immediate appeal and food-driven versatility.

Terrior:
Lake County sits north of Napa Valley at higher elevations, with vineyards planted on volcanic ash, basalt, and red clay soils. These well-drained soils naturally limit vigor and contribute concentration, mineral tension, and firm structure. The region’s warm days promote full ripeness, while cool nights—driven by elevation and proximity to Clear Lake—help preserve acidity, resulting in wines that are both rich and balanced.

Appearance:
Deep ruby to inky garnet with a dense core and youthful purple highlights. Excellent clarity and slow, stained legs indicate concentration and richness.

Nose:
Expressive and layered, showing aromas of blackberry, black cherry, and ripe plum. Secondary notes of mocha, vanilla, baking spice, and graphite emerge alongside subtle hints of dried herbs and dark chocolate.

Palate:
Full-bodied with a plush, mouth-coating texture. Dark fruit flavors dominate—blackcurrant, blackberry compote, and plum—supported by smooth, well-integrated tannins. Notes of cocoa, espresso, and toasted oak add depth, while balanced acidity keeps the wine lively and food-friendly.

Finish:
Long, smooth, and warming, with lingering dark fruit, spice, and gentle oak sweetness. The finish is polished and approachable, without harsh edges.

Food Pairings:

• Meat: Grilled ribeye; barbecue brisket; braised short ribs

• Vegetarian: Mushroom stroganoff; lentil and black bean chili; roasted eggplant with smoked spices

• Charcuterie Board: Aged cheddar; gouda; soppressata; dark chocolate

Overall Impression:
Bringing together Lake County’s volcanic terroir, deep and saturated appearance, dark-fruited and spice-driven aromatics, a plush and generous palate, and a long, polished finish, the 2022 Clay Shannon Proprietary Red Blend is a confident, crowd-pleasing red. It excels with hearty dishes and delivers richness, balance, and modern California appeal.

Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): 14.5%
Farming Practices: Sustainable viticulture; estate and long-term grower partnerships
Producer Name: Clay Shannon Wines
Old World / New World: New World
Country of Origin: USA
Region: Lake County, California
Grape Varietals: Proprietary red blend (Cabernet Sauvignon–led with complementary varieties)
Vintage: 2023
Wine Style: Still red; full-bodied; rich; polished
Winemaking Techniques: Small-lot fermentation; extended maceration; aging in French and American oak
Pack Size: 750 mL
Container Style: Bordeaux-style bottle
Closure Style: Natural cork

Sources:

• Clay Shannon Wines producer and technical information
• Lake County AVA and volcanic-soil viticultural references