Red Blend, 2020. Source and Sink

We've heard a lot of crazy stories about how people got into the wine business and this one is right up there. Source and Sink was founded by two Chicago natives, Randal Feldman and Aaron Cherny, in 2017. Though both born in Chicago, Randal came to California to study grape growing years earlier and Aaron became a "jaded banker" in his hometown.

They didn't even meet until the 2017 harvest in Sonoma. Randal was harvesting and Aaron had given up his banking career wanting to settle in wine country. So, this serendipitous meeting takes place during the most hectic time of harvest and a bond is made. It was instantaneous and is still in play today. Randal had made a name for himself by converting traditionally farmed vineyards into organic and biodynamic methods. The name is a reference called "sinks" which refers to the three parts of the vine; roots, leaves and grapes.

Converting to organic is much more difficult than it sounds. First, you have to get rid of everything that doesn't belong like weeds, varmints, insects and the like. Then you systematically plant drought resistant grasses and propagate friendly insects to vines, but are also enemies of those insects that can damage the vine. In the end we end up with this lovely selection made of 54% Zinfandel, 26% Petite Sirah, 14% Alicante Bouschet and 6% Syrah. The rustic elements in these grapes are tamed by aging in oak, which also brings out the bramble and strawberry components suitable for roast duck or beef bourguignon.

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