Idlewild The Flower Rose
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Idlewild is a small winery the produces Piedmontese varietals grown in the elevated hills of Mendocino County. It is owned and operated by Sam Bilbro, a fourth generation California winemaker. Idlewildโs focus is two-fold: First, Piedmontese varieties as single varietal and vineyard wines of typicity, energy, and balance; and second, Piedmontese varietal blends that balance joy and depth while complimenting the table. Emphasis is on the vineyard followed by minimalist winemaking techniques. Idlewild is about what moves Sam. Wines that are rooted in tradition but which also endeavor to create a new paradigm. His wines possess vibrant fruit character but often have savory elements and the requisite structure and acid to make them well to pair with food. They are wines of beauty and balance. Sam grew up hanging out in a winery converted from an old cow barn, walking vineyards, and tasting blends with his dad. Later, while in the restaurant industry, he was exposed to wines from across the globe and was especially struck by the wines of Italyโs Piedmont. His production comes primarily from small, progressively-farmed vineyards in Mendocino โ primarily from the rocky elevated slopes of Fox Hill Vineyardโs older vines which is managed by Idlewild. Idlewild represent the essence of the New California. This movement, defined in Jon Bonneโs book โThe New California Wineโ, encompasses producers who are working with unusual varietals and making wines of balance and finesse that defy the traditional โnew world-old worldโ divide. These are wines that have been inspired by the their old-world archetypes, yet with unique personalities unto themselves, and firmly rooted in the California terroir. And like their old-world brethren, they are crafted to work well at the dinner table.