May11, 2021 Railsback Frères began as a rosé project in 2015 by wine industry veterans brothers Lyle and Eric Railsback. Lyle ran National Sales for legendary French importer Kermit Lynch for twelve years while Eric started Lieu Dit wines in Santa Barbara after a long tenure at some of San Francisco’s most prestigious wine programs. We are excited to share their newest releases from the Santa Ynez Valley.
Railsback Soeur Vermentinu 2019
Travels to the exotic Mediterranean island of Corsica have uncovered some of their favorite French white wines, from the native grape Vermentino (or Vermentinu in local dialect). 2019 is the second release of Vermentinu, sourced from two sites in Santa Ynez, half from the marine sedimentary loam of Camp Four, and half from the pure sand of Brick Barn, both harvested by hand. With aromas of white flowers, pink grapefruit, and a distinctive bitter almond finish. Perfect for seafood and white fish dishes, it also goes down easily on its own. Bottles empty themselves quicker than one could imagine.
Railsback Freres Cuvee Speciale Le Carignane Santa Maria Valley 2019
Inspired by the Southern French reds of sommelier cult producer, Maxime Magnon, and Cru Beaujolais from the Gang of Four, this Carignane is made with partial carbonic maceration, making for a juicy-fruited, crushable red that you should serve slightly chilled or at cellar temperature. Strawberries, cranberries, and baking spices, with herbaceous flavors of umami and sandalwood. This light-bodied and low alcohol, easy-drinking fresh red is a perfect match for cured meats, dark leafy greens, and of course the favorite burger or pizza night!
Railsback Freres Syrah 'Bien Nacido - Sans Soufre' Santa Maria Valley 2018
Some of their favorite wines in France come from the Northern Rhône appellations of Cornas, Côte-Rôtie, and Hermitage, where the Syrah grape reigns supreme. The 2018 vintage Syrah was inspired by Northern Rhône greats Thierry Allemand, Auguste Clape, and Gerard Chave. Grapes are sourced from the Bien Nacido vineyard in the agricultural heart of the Santa Maria Valley, avoiding any additions of Sulphur (SO2), and then aged for 17 months in neutral French oak barrels. Bottling was done without fining or filtration, and only 207 cases were produced. The 2018 vintage is bold, full-bodied, and bursting with aromas of smoke, boysenberry and blueberry fruits, and the classic black pepper spice of Syrah.