92 Point Stokes' Ghost Petite Sirah // Set of 4

Al Scheid first saw untapped potential in Monterey County in 1972 when the wine region was in its infancy. What started as a grape growing operation that sold 100% of its production to other wineries has evolved into a grapes-to-glass family business that crafts authentic and elegant wines. The Scheid Family Wines' portfolio now includes five unique and distinctive labels: Scheid Vineyards, District 7, Metz Road, VDR and Stokes’ Ghost.

With 12 estate vineyards comprising 4,000 acres located along a 70-mile spread of the Salinas Valley, the array of microclimates and soils give them an incredible selection to work with each vintage. While their wealth of vineyard resources is exceptional, it is their employees that are at the heart of everything they do. Much of their workforce has been with them for over 25 years, with several vineyard managers employed for over 40 years.

James Stokes was a British sailor who jumped ship in Monterey in 1833, passing himself off as a doctor with medicine stolen from the boat. Despite killing a significant number of patients, Stokes was appointed personal physician to Governor Jose Figueroa. Within a year, the governor was dead. Stokes’ sons confronted him over his crimes and he ingested poison, falling lifeless at their feet. The adobe home in which Stokes lived still stands and every so often a man dressed in 1800s garb is seen climbing the stairs and passing through walls. This is the legend of Stokes’ Ghost.

Deep and brooding, the 2016 Stokes' Ghost Petite Sirah is brimming with aromas of blackberry, plum, and black currant. The intense, jammy fruit provides the drama while subtle notes of mocha and hazelnut bring finesse. Stokes’ Ghost is full-bodied with balanced tannins and a finish that lingers on the palate. This rich, lush wine is just what the doctor ordered.

92 Points, James Suckling
"The extremely intense aromas of black raspberries lead you into a full-bodied and well-structured red that retains remarkable freshness and lightness, considering its scale and the sheer quantity of tannins. The long, dry finish has more textural complexity and vitality than you normally get with this grape. Drink or hold."