2008 Michael David Earthquake Petite Sirah

Michael David Winery was founded by brothers Michael and David Phillips, who are fifth generation grape growers in Lodi. Today younger generations also help run the family operation along with the brothers. Derek DeVries is winemaker. The winery makes several labels, a couple of them fanciful in spirit. The various wine groups include Freakshow, Seven Deadly, Earthquake, Inkblot and the eponymous Michael David label. The estate makes primarily red wine, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Petit Sirah, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot.

Despite its popularity, this grape is quite rare. Less than 10,000 acres are planted worldwide, with the bulk in California. In France, the grape is referred to as Durif. Not to be confused with Syrah, Petite Sirah is a cross of Syrah and Peloursin. The result is darker and fuller.