Paso Robles, CA (December 5, 2023) – Halter Ranch is proud to announce its newest release, 2021 El Pecado. First introduced in 2006, the name translates to “the sin” in reference to the sinful indulgence of this dessert wine. A blend of 78% Tannat and 22% Grenache, El Pecado provides a decadent, elevated tasting experience and is a limited offering, with just 341 cases of this vintage produced.
“We couldn’t be more excited to release El Pecado and further highlight the range of quality wines that are crafted at Halter Ranch,” said Kevin Sass, Winemaker at Halter Ranch. “I look forward to hearing the response to the new dessert wine and hope our customers enjoy it as much as we did creating it.”
El Pecado’s notable flavor profile can be attributed to the infusion of organic hand roasted coffee beans and cocoa nibs over a 16 month aging process in French oak barrels. The Grenache portion of the grapes were hung from a drying rack for four weeks on handmade wooden racks prior to blending with the Tannat in the tank for fermentation. The drying of the Grenache dehydrated the grapes by 40%, increasing sugar and concentration. Fermentation lasted 14 days with pumpovers taking place twice per day, and was then halted with natural sugar remaining to create the dessert wine.
The El Pecado showcases aromas of berry compote combined with hazelnut, molasses, mocha, and roasted coffee. The entry is sweet, soft, and rich, bursting with red fruit. The full-bodied midpalate is complemented by the natural residual sugar, creating an intense mouthfeel. The finish is soft, yet structured, making this a truly distinctive dessert wine.
Known for their commitment to sustainable and organic practices – culminating with the estate earning organic certification in August 2023 – Halter Ranch continues to push the boundaries of what can be achieved in the Paso Robles wine region. With its characteristic sweetness, complexity and ageability, the El Pecado can be enjoyed during all celebrations this holiday season and beyond.
The El Pecado is available for purchase now in 500mL bottles at Halter Ranch’s online wine shop for a price of $48 for Halter Ranch Wine Club members, and $60 for non-members.
About Halter Ranch
Set along the western-most boundaries of Paso Robles, California, and surrounded by the wild and wide-open Santa Lucia Mountain Range of the Central California Coast, Halter Ranch is a 2,700-acre nature estate dedicated to land, art, and 100% organic grapes. Envisioned by Swiss entrepreneur, philanthropist, and world-leading land conservationist Hansjörg Wyss, the estate is an homage to his mother, Alice Halter, and a haven for the natural world to flourish and deliver exceptional timeless wines.
